Alpine Skiing & Snowboarding Injuries
Alpine skiing and snowboarding are very popular and wonderful winter sports, however they may be associated with serious injury. Improper training, fatigue after a long day on the slopes, altered snow conditions and poor judgment can all result in unexpected injuries among skiers and snowboarders. Snow sport injuries are most often traumatic, occurring as a result of falls or collisions.
The risk factors that predispose people to skiing and snowboarding injuries are:
- Continuous skiing or snowboarding with no rest
- Skiing or snowboarding beyond your ability level
- Using faulty or improperly maintained equipment
- Poor adjustment of altitude
- Fatigue and dehydration
- Skiing or Snowboarding in unopened areas
- Failure to observe and obey the posted signs and warnings
Some of the most common skiing and snowboarding injures include shoulder dislocations/separations, wrist and thumb injuries, lower extremity injuries (anterior cruciate ligament injuries and collateral ligament injuries), spinal injuries and closed head injuries.
For minor injuries, your doctor may begin with non-surgical treatments that may include rest, bracing, use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and avoidance of secondary injury. However, surgery may be required for patients with fractures and ligament injuries. Full recovery after surgery may take about 3 to 6 months. Some may require a longer time for recovery.
Prevention
To prevent snowsport injuries some of the commonly practiced measures are as follows:
- Get proper instructions including safe skiing techniques before getting on the slopes
- Perform warm up and cool down exercises before and after sport activity
- Use appropriate well maintained equipment
- Ensure that you wear safety equipment such as helmets, wrist guards and elbow and kneepads.
- Avoid skiing or boarding when tired and make sure to take frequent rests.
- Parents should keep their children informed about maintaining proper speeds and the risks of skiing/snowboarding. They should also be advised to avoid skiing terrain that is beyond their ability.
- Keep your body hydrated during the day.
- For your safety, read and abide by all posted signs and warnings.
A majority of snowsports injuries can be prevented by using good equipment, being physically prepared and being well informed.
