The comment about shin lacerations/bruises reminds me of my first experienced crew on my Hobie 20. She showed up with field hockey shin guards, having been on these boats before. My own worst problem came over time. Two seasons ago I developed bursitis in my left shoulder at the end of the season from hand sheeting the main all the time. I was afraid to cleat it, having gone over a few time when I couldn't release it in time. Anyway, the effort finally caught up with me and I suffered 3 months of limited motion before seeing an orthopod, who scheduled me for surgery. The worst part was the rehab to get the joint mobility back. I've since learned how to cleat the main and release the main. For us older guys the "cumulitive, wearing down" injuries may be the biggest problem.
David
H20