Rowing injuries: identifying and treating musculoskeletal and nonmusculoskeletal conditions.

Rowing-whether on the water or with machines-is increasingly popular, and, as with any strenuous exercise, the potential for injury is high. Rowers may have common symptoms, such as low-back and knee pain, or more sport-specific problems such as rib stress fractures, nerve impingement, and blisters. Virtually all rowing injuries are due to overuse, and many can be traced to training errors or equipment problems. Understanding the mechanics of rowing, the equipment, and the training procedures is essential for the physician caring for injured rowers.