There is a large database of research conducted in relation to mild Traumatic Brain Injuries (mTBI) within contact sports, however only recently have researchers begun looking into concussion trends amongst non-contact sports such as surfing. A total of 34 337 head injuries were reported by surfers in the U.S between 2001-2016 with mTBIs accounting for 16.1% (Kozminski et al., 2019). mTBIs such as concussions can lead to subsequent brain inflammation, chronic pain and mental health issues such as anxiety and depression. The most common cause of head injuries within surfing is direct contact with the board, rocks or reefs.
Helmets, surf hoods and goggles are available to surfers as a protective measure to reduce the risk of mTBIs whilst in the water. An Australian study found that less than 2% of surfers wear helmets whilst in the water and only 38% considered mTBIs and other head injuries to pose risk within the sport (Taylor et al., 2005).
The seriousness of mTBIs and the lifelong complications they can create is not something that should be dismissed.
Fortunately, there are options for effective therapy for mTBI such as Hyperbaric Oxygen Chamber Therapy, Vestibular Rehab, Laser therapy, Vagal nerve stimulation
Owen Wright, one of Australia’s best surfers and winner of the Bronze medal at the Tokyo Olympics has been a long time user of helmets in surfing
https://olympics.com/en/video/from-brain-damage-to-surf-glory-owen-wright-tells-his-story
