The Snap Maneuver in Surfing: A Common Cause of MCL Tears

Oct 15

As surfing continues to gain recognition on the world stage, including its return in the 2024 Summer Olympics in France, the demands placed on athletes are higher than ever. Surfing's inclusion in the Olympics since 2020 has brought global attention to the sport, but it has also highlighted the physical challenges that come with performing high-level maneuvers, such as the snap, which can lead to serious injuries like medial collateral ligament (MCL) tears.

Source: https://escueladesurflasdunas.com/snap-tecnica-y-secretos/

The Snap Maneuver: How It Strains the MCL

The snap is a powerful and aggressive maneuver in competitive surfing, involving a sharp, controlled turn off the top of a wave. Surfers execute the snap by applying heavy pressure to the inner edge of the surfboard while rotating their body quickly to change direction. This sudden movement forces the surfer’s knee into an awkward, inward-bending position, known as a valgus force, putting intense pressure on the MCL—a ligament crucial for stabilizing the knee.

The MCL, located on the inner side of the knee, helps prevent the joint from collapsing inward. During a snap, especially under the forces of a fast-moving wave, the knee may be pushed beyond its natural limits, causing strain or even a tear in the MCL. This type of injury can be particularly devastating for surfers, as it compromises the knee’s stability and can take months to fully recover.

MCL Injuries Among Top Surfers

In the high-stakes world of professional surfing, MCL tears have sidelined some of the sport's biggest names.

John John Florence, a multiple-time world champion, has dealt with several knee injuries throughout his career, including an MCL tear. His aggressive style and frequent use of maneuvers like the snap have put considerable stress on his knees, leading to injuries that have forced him to miss competitions.
Michel Bourez, another top surfer known for his power surfing, has also battled knee injuries, including MCL damage. His style of attacking waves with intense turns puts him at high risk for knee problems, particularly during heavy surf conditions where maneuvers like the snap require exceptional precision and strength.

These athletes' injuries highlight the risks of high-performance surfing, especially as they compete on the world’s biggest stage, like the Olympics.

Surfing in the Summer Olympics

Surfing made its Olympic debut at the 2020 Tokyo Games, marking a historic moment for the sport after years of advocacy for its inclusion. This milestone brought surfing from its roots as a popular beach culture activity to the global stage of competitive athletics. The event showcased top athletes from around the world competing on ocean waves, blending athleticism with artistry. Held at Tsurigasaki Beach, the 2020 competition was a major success, paving the way for surfing to return to the Olympics in 2024, where the event took place in the world-renowned surf destination of Tahiti. Surfing's inclusion in the Olympics has solidified its place as a serious competitive sport, while also honoring its deep cultural significance and connection to nature.

Common Injuries in Surfing

In addition to MCL tears, surfers are prone to a range of other injuries. The combination of high impact, fast-paced movements, and the unpredictability of the ocean increases the risk of injury. Some of the most common injuries include:

Shoulder Injuries: The repetitive motion of paddling places strain on the shoulder joints, leading to rotator cuff injuries, dislocations, or impingements.
Wrist Injuries: Falling from the surfboard or bracing during a fall can result in wrist sprains or fractures.
Knee Injuries: Beyond MCL tears, sudden movements can lead to anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries or patellar tendinitis.
Cuts and Abrasions: Contact with the surfboard, coral, or rocks can cause cuts, scrapes, and lacerations, often requiring medical attention.

Understanding these common injuries is crucial for surfers, particularly those competing at the Olympic level. The ability to recognize the signs of an injury early, seek appropriate treatment, and engage in preventive exercises is key to maintaining a long and healthy career.

Preventing MCL Tears in Surfing

While the snap is a critical move in competitive surfing, surfers can take steps to minimize the risk of MCL tears:

Strength Training: Building strength in the muscles surrounding the knee, such as the quadriceps and hamstrings, helps stabilize the joint during high-impact maneuvers.
Flexibility: Maintaining good flexibility in the legs and hips can reduce the risk of awkward knee movements that lead to ligament tears.
Technique: Perfecting the snap technique through proper training can help distribute forces more evenly across the body, reducing strain on the MCL.
Knee Braces: Some athletes, especially those with a history of knee injuries, opt to use knee braces for additional support during intense surf sessions.

The Importance of Sports Medicine in Surfing

Aas surfing continues to gain prominence in the Olympics, the importance of sports medicine cannot be ignored. Injuries like MCL tears, often triggered by maneuvers like the snap, are common in high-performance surfing and can severely impact an athlete’s career. Effective injury prevention and rehabilitation strategies are critical for maintaining peak performance.

This is where medical visualization plays a key role. By clearly illustrating the mechanics of injuries, medical professionals can better communicate the risks and solutions to athletes. At Biotic Artlab, we focus on making complex injuries more understandable through beautiful visuals. These tools not only help athletes prevent injuries but also aid in developing targeted treatment plans to ensure a faster and more effective recovery.