Intrinsic Predictors of Injury on a Multi-day Wilderness Event for Adolescents and Adult Leaders

Abstract

Wilderness recreation has become increasingly popular in the US over the last few decades; with adolescents and young adults making up 20% of participants. While outdoor recreation has many benefits, there is also risk of injury. It is hypothesized that certain intrinsic and lifestyle factors impact risk of injury; stress, age, and pre-existing psychological conditions. There were 48 adolescents, 21 adults, and 3 unclassified individuals enrolled for a total of 72 healthy individuals of varying fitness levels. They pulled handcarts for 22 miles in Utah’s high plains for what is known as Pioneer Trek. This is a multi-day optional experience for youth to participate in to gain an appreciation of what the early Utah settlers accomplished when they crossed the plains. A survey was given to identify pre-existing conditions and education was provided for prevention of common injuries and dehydration. The medical team saw patients as needed and charted the type and frequency of injury. Logistic regression was performed using pre-existing conditions, injury type and frequency. Older age and low feelings of stress were associated with reducing the odds of injury (Age OR = .898, stress OR = .017). We also found that individuals with pre-existing psychological conditions were more likely to incur an injury (OR = 4.90 P = .07). Our study showed that age, psychological condition, and experiencing sensations of stress impact the risk of injury. Thus, these factors should be taken into consideration to prevent injuries in wilderness activities.