A National Evaluation of Upper Extremity Weightlifting Injury Surveillance: The High Risk in Youth and Adults With an Underutilization in Older Adults

Sprain/strain and fracture/crush/avulsion were frequent upper extremity weightlifting injuries, often secondary to drop/crush injuries and overhead movements. Pediatric athletes were more likely to sustain finger and drop/crush injuries, whereas shoulder injuries affected all adult age groups. The low proportion of geriatric weightlifters suggests there may be underuse of a sport effective in combating osteoporosis. These insights into overall and age-specific injury patterns can help shape evidence-based recommendations to reduce the overall injury burden and promote safe resistance training.