Injuries and Risk Factors in a 100-Mile (161-km) Infantry Road March,

Background.Light infantry soldiers (N= 218) completed a 161-km cross-country march over 5 days carrying an average ± SD load mass (i.e., the weight of all equipment and clothing) of 47 ± 5 kg. Methods.Prior to the march, height, weight, body fat, and physical fitness (3.2-km run, sit-ups, push-ups) were measured. Soldiers completed a demographic questionnaire which included questions on age and tobacco use history. Results.Thirty-six percent (78/218) of the soldiers suffered one or more injuries. Of the total injuries, 48% presented were blisters and 18% were foot pain (not otherwise specified). Eight percent (17/218) of the soldiers were unable to complete the march because of injuries. Thirty-five percent (27/78) of the injured soldiers had 1 or more limited duty days for a total of 69 days. Risk of injury was higher among smokers (risk RATIO = 1.8,P= 0.03 compared to nonsmokers) and lower among older soldiers (risk RATIO = 3.2,P= 0.02, <20 years compared to >24 years). Conclusions.Carrying heavy loads over long distances can result in a high injury incidence to the lower body, since 36% of soldiers were injured during the 161-km march. Smoking and younger age (<20 years) were independent risk factors for injuries.