The advice of a health professional for surfing safely

"The most common injuries for snowboarders are sprains, muscular creases, lacerations, dislocations and fractures, which are often caused by their own board," recalls Kenneth Samuel Taylor, professor of family and preventive medicine at School of Medicine at UC San Diego. He also wears the hat of medical director of the International Surfing Association, which writes medical protocols Championships World Surfing Games.

Samuel Taylor states that the various protections for surfing on the market "does not completely prevent injuries." The surf leash, strap connecting the ankle of the surfer with his board, protective equipment is the most common: it allows the rider to stay close to his board, for use as a buoy in case of injury, and reduced the risk of collision with stray boards of other surfers. Samuel Taylor explains that it may yet cause another risk, since it increases the chances for the surfer to take a hit of his own board.

"This is why it is important to always stay focused and to protect his head with his arm after a fall," said the specialist. "Of course, surfers should check before going into the water as weather and sea conditions can surf safely."

Shark attacks are extremely rare, but injuries caused by bites sting (the famous "stingrays") are far more common, according to Samuel Taylor. To counteract the poison, we can apply hot water. It is also advisable to move his feet when walking in shallow waters to alert the fish of his presence.

The shallow coral reefs are also risks. "The injuries caused by contact with coral reefs usually heal slowly because of the different toxins and other microbes found there," said Samuel Taylor. "In many cases, deep cleaning, antibiotics and vaccination against tetanus may be necessary".

We must not forget his sunscreen (and focus on those that protect both UVA and UVB) or clothes that protect against UV rays, such as neoprene tops (which also prevent irritation). Finally, it is wise to avoid sun exposure between 10 am and 16 hours.

Prolonged exposure to cold water and wind can cause exostosis (bone formation in the ear canal), known in the jargon as "surfer's ear", which can lead to otitis externa. To prevent infection, Samuel Taylor recommends "dry your ears after applying a solution of equal parts white vinegar and half rubbing alcohol".