Winter Sport Injury Prevention: Skiing and Snowboarding
Winter Sport Injury | Skiing and snowboarding are fun sports to participate in during the winter season, but they can be dangerous if the right precautions are not met. Winter sports injuries can range from fractures in the leg to shoulder dislocation to head injuries such as concussions. According to the US Consumer Product Safety Commission in 2018, there were approximately 76,000 snow ski-related injuries and an additional 53,000 snowboarding-related injuries. Injuries can occur for a multitude of reasons, but some of the most common risk factors include:
- Fatigue/overexertion
- Dehydration
- Improper equipment
- Inadequate adjustment to altitude
- Participating above ability level
While an accident can happen at any time, there are more specific time frames that injuries occur most often. Many of these injuries occurred either in the mornings bright and early or the end of the day when things are winding down. For example, morning skiers and snowboarders may not be warmed up before hitting the slopes. As for the end of the day, many overexert themselves to complete one last run before the day is over.
How do I prevent a winter sport injury from occurring?
- Warm up and stretch
- Prepare for the season and start training/exercising
- Wear a helmet at all times
- Ensure equipment is checked for safety at a certified shop
- If there is not a shop near your place of residence, be sure to check online to visit one near your ski course. Proper equipment is essential.
- Self-release your bindings each day you ski
- After you ski, release your bindings for more mobility. If there is a failure of release, please go to the nearest expert shop for a replacement.
- Don’t ski while intoxicated
- This is an extremely dangerous practice and should be avoided at all costs. Please practice responsible skiing and snowboarding while on and off the course.
Sources:
https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/staying-healthy/skiing-injury-prevention/
https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/staying-healthy/winter-sports-injury-prevention
https://health.ucdavis.edu/children/download/sports_medicine/Skiing%20Injuries.pdf
https://imis.sportsmed.org/AOSSMIMIS/STOP/STOP/Prevent_Injuries/Skiing_and_Snowboarding_Injury_Prevention.aspx
If you have sustained a Winter Sport Injury, you can schedule a phone consultation with a Doctor of Physical Therapy today. You can also book an appointment for further evaluation and treatment. Don’t hesitate to reach out for help and support in managing your injury.
