data as a potential marker of the degree of high-altitude acclimatization could be somewhat indicative of PHT for a specific altitude and physical exercise in the normal subject monitored. These parameters may also be useful in climbers with more exacerbated hemodynamic changes which could ultimately manifest as HAPE. We found no references in the literature of wireless phonocardiographic trans...

This purpose of this paper was to test a three-dimensional model of recreational specialization developed by Scott and Shafer (2001a). The model suggests recreational specialization could be conceptualized in terms of three distinct dimensions: behavior, skill and knowledge, and commitment. The model was tested using data from avid American birdwatchers (members of the American Birding Associat...

OBJECTIVES To study the rate, causes, and nature of rock climbing injuries presenting to an accident and emergency (A&E) department. METHODS Patients presenting with rock climbing injuries to an urban A&E department were studied prospectively for one year. RESULTS 19 rock climbers presented during the year, at a rate of one per 2774 A&E attendances. Fourteen climbers were injured on outdoor...

As the popularity of climbing has grown, so has the interest in researching the psychological aspects of climbers. However, it is only recently that research has examined the use of imagery in climbing (see for example Barton, 1996; Hardy & Callow, 1999; Jones, Mace, Bray, MacRae & Stockbridge, 2002). The purpose of this study was twofold: first to examine the extent to which beginner and advan...

This study examines the osteological changes in the hands and fingers of rock climbers that result from intense, long-term mechanical stress placed on these bones. Specifically, it examines whether rock climbing leads to metacarpal and phalange modelling in the form of increased cortical thickness as well as joint changes associated with osteoarthritis. This study also attempts to identify spec...

IntroductionA significant number of climbers on Mount Kilimanjaro are affected by altitude-related disorders. The aim this study was to determine the main causes morbidity and mortality in a representative cohort based local hospital records.MethodsWe conducted 2-y retrospective chart review all patients presenting referral region after climb Kilimanjaro, including relevant records referrals fo...

BACKGROUND Hot aches, also known as the screaming barfies in North America, are a recognised phenomenon amongst winter climbers, assumed to be triggered by the reperfusion of cold peripheries which then rapidly progresses to a systemic vasodilatory syndrome. Symptoms experienced in the hands include pain, numbness and throbbing followed by systemic symptoms such as nausea, irritability, dizzine...

OBJECTIVE To ascertain whether climbing a mountain over 3000 meters high produces any alterations in ventilation, whether such alterations are modified by acclimatization, and whether they correlate with changes in arterial oxygen saturation (SaO2) or the development of acute mountain sickness (AMS). SUBJECTS AND METHODS The following parameters were measured in 8 unacclimatized mountaineers ...

BACKGROUND Avalanches are a significant cause of winter recreational fatalities in mountain regions. The purpose of this study was to determine the relative contributions of trauma and asphyxia to avalanche deaths. METHODS We reviewed all avalanche fatalities between 1984 and 2005 that had been investigated by the offices of the British Columbia Coroners Service and the Chief Medical Examiner...