Non-equipment exercise-related injuries among US women 65 and older: emergency department visits from 1994-2001.

The objective of this study was to estimate the relative frequency, types of injury, types of exercise, and mechanism of non-equipment exercise-related injury among women 65 and older. Methods included a descriptive analysis of emergency department (ED) visits to hospitals participating in the National Electronic Injury Surveillance System (NEISS). Researchers identified 851 exercise-related injuries to women 65 and older. Estimates are that 37729 older women were treated in emergency departments for injuries related to non-equipment type exercise activity from 1994-2001. Although there are many benefits to exercise, injuries due to overuse and existing physical conditions such as osteoporosis are a concern for active older women. Promotion of safe exercise activities and programs for older women are recommended.