Skiing and snowboarding have a reputation for being dangerous sports, however with adequate preparation many injuries can be prevented.
Firstly skiers and snowboarders can have very different injuries.
Skiers are more likely to injure their knees from a twisting motion when falling, whereas snowboarders tend to have more upper body injuries (as a result of falling on an outstretched hand).
The most common skiing injuries include:
- Knee injuries and injuries to the head and shoulders.
- Injured ligaments which stabilise the knee are often overstretched which can then affect your kneecap (meniscus)
What happens if I sustain and injury?
If you do injure yourself don’t panic, it might not mean the end of your ski days…unless your injury is severe, most injuries can be treated by a physio.
A common injury which is caused by falling onto an outstretched arm (which us physios call AC joint sprain) can cause chronic pain and deformity, if left untreated.
Watch out for symptoms of pain right at the end of the collarbone on the top of the shoulder. Initially, the pain may be widespread throughout the shoulder but becomes more localised to the bony point on the top of the shoulder later on.
If you’ve had a fall like this and are experiencing those symptoms, take it from us.. earlier treatment could save you a lot of discomfort down the line.
So how do you prevent Skiing and Snowboarding Injuries?
The best way is with a conditioning and strengthening programme. Turning up to the slopes having not exercised beforehand can mean not only will you have less stamina but if you do fall your likelihood to injure yourself is higher, and let’s face it cutting your holiday short sounds like no fun at all!
Warming up is hugely important! Cold muscles equals a bigger risk of injury.
If you are a beginner, let’s face it you will fall over.. it’s all part of the learning, so taking lessons from a qualified instructor and making sure you talk through the best way to fall safely will reduce your risk of injury.
ALWAYS wear a helmet to protect your head. Don’t chance it..
Use the appropriate gear and clothing which can help protect you from the elements.
And always have a friend with you on the slopes, so somebody can go for medical assistance if needed.
These simple steps could be the difference between enjoying every day on the slopes to filling out medical insurance forms..
And IF you are unfortunate enough to have a fall… remember our physios are on hand to build you back up again so you don’t miss out on next ski season!
If you’d like to find out more about a conditioning programme or you’d like to chat to us about any pain you are experiencing contact us to book an appointment.
