Can rock climbing lead to Dupuytren's disease?
OBJECTIVE
To determine if rock climbing is a significant factor in the development of Dupuytren's disease in men, and, if so, what is the most likely related factor.


METHODS
Questionnaires were distributed to all 1100 members of the Climbers' Club of Great Britain. These detailed basic information about the climber, the presence of Dupuytren's disease, and any known risk factors for its development.


RESULTS
About half (51%) of the questionnaires were returned. The respondents were almost entirely male. It was revealed that 19.5% of male climbers had developed Dupuytren's disease. There was a significantly higher life time intensity of climbing activity in those with the disease. An earlier age of onset of the disease was found in climbers compared with the general population.


CONCLUSIONS
This study further strengthens the hypothesis that repetitive trauma to the palmar fascia predisposes to the development of Dupuytren's disease in men.
Logan
A J
AJ
Department of Orthopaedics, Wrexham Maelor Hospital, Cardiff, Wales, CF23 8NH, UK. andrew.logan@ntlworld.com
Mason
G
G
Dias
J
J
Makwana
N
N
D000328:Adult; D017668:Age of Onset; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D001265:Athletic Injuries / Q000150:complications*; D004387:Dupuytren Contracture / Q000209:etiology*; D005205:Fascia / Q000293:injuries; D005383:Finger Injuries / Q000150:complications*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009051:Mountaineering / Q000293:injuries*; D012307:Risk Factors; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D006113:United Kingdom