The thrill of slicing through powdery snow and racing past ice-covered pines draws skiers and snowboarders to the slopes every winter.
Unfortunately, the speed and unpredictability of skiing and snowboarding land some winter sports enthusiasts in the emergency department.
“Knee injuries are most prevalent among skiers,” said Dr. Albert Cecchini, a Marshfield Clinic Health System orthopedic surgeon and sports medicine physician. “It could be a sprain, torn ACL or other ligament tear.”
Snowboarders are more likely to suffer upper extremity injuries like broken wrists.
“Head injuries can happen to skiers and snowboarders who don’t wear helmets,” he said. “They’re more common among snowboarders, who tend to be younger and take more risks.”
Prevent bone or joint injuries
Cecchini recommends following these safety tips to reduce your chance of injury while skiing or snowboarding:
- Use proper equipment. Get skis and bindings that fit, wear a helmet and use wrist guards if you’re snowboarding.
- Stick to slopes in your ability level. Move to the side and sidestep your way down if you find yourself on a hill more advanced than you can handle.
- Ski only in marked areas. Venturing out of bounds or onto closed slopes increases your risk of injury and makes it harder for ski patrol to find you if you’re hurt.
- Be aware of other skiers. Also pay attention to obstacles in your path and signs marking the slopes.
“If you’re about to fall, tuck your chin to your chest and flex your knees and elbows,” Cecchini said. “Twists and fractures are more likely when you extend your arms or legs to brace yourself. Don’t try to get up at the same time you’re falling.”
When to get help for an injury
Hearing or feeling a pop probably means you have a bone or joint injury. If you get hurt on the slope, move to the side of the hill as soon as possible. Slowly make your way to flat ground if you can, or flag someone down to alert the ski patrol.
Get medical help right away if you have any of these symptoms:
- Head or neck injury
- Deformity in the injured area
- Injured area is numb
- Inability to move the body part
Call your doctor as soon as possible for an appointment if the injured area is painful, swollen or you can’t put weight on it.
More skiing and snowboarding safety tips
Broken bones aren’t the only risk that comes with skiing. Follow these additional tips to stay safe on the slopes:
- Dress for the occasion. Wear a wicking layer that absorbs sweat, a thin wool or fleece layer to keep you warm and a wind- and water-resistant outer layer. Don’t forget a hat and gloves.
- Wear eye protection to keep sun and snow out of your eyes. Skiing is safer when you can see.
- Skip the spiked hot chocolate. Sports and alcohol don’t mix well. Stick to non-alcoholic drinks in the ski lodge.
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