Keep these smart tips in mind to stay on the lookout for common ski injuries and how to prevent them.
Many people enjoy snow sports like skiing and snowboarding every year, but few prepare properly for these rigorous physical activities. You can prevent many injuries by preparing yourself physically, using suitable and correctly adjusted equipment. Stay safe out on the snow by knowing these common ski injuries and how to prevent them.
Common ski injuries
Skiers can sustain a wide range of different injuries when skiing including:
- Knee injuries (usually anterior cruciate or collateral ligament)
- Shoulder dislocations, sprains, or fractures
- Fractures of the lower legs
- Head injuries
- Spinal injuries
- Wrist, hand, or thumb injuries
How to prevent ski injuries
There are several strategies to help you prevent ski injuries:
Prepare carefully
- Keep in good physical condition before you set out to ski. For those out of shape, choose ski runs with care and make sure they gradually build your way up to more challenging trails.
- Warm up before skiing. “Cold muscles” that have not been stretched and warmed up are more prone to injury. Do jumping jacks, run, or walk in place for a few minutes to get started.
- Stay hydrated while skiing. Even a little bit of dehydration can hinder your skiing ability and endurance. Remember to drink plenty of water during your outing.
Use the appropriate equipment
- Wear several layers of light and loose clothing when you go out to ski. Make sure your clothing is also wind- and water-resistant. This keeps you warm and protected from the elements.
- Get boots (either bought or rented) that are properly set, adjusted, maintained, and tested for skiing. Also wear protective gear like gloves, goggles, and a ski helmet.
- Before skiing double check the bindings on your skis as they must be properly adjusted to fit your specific height and weight.
Ski in a safe environment
- Know the various safety rules of your ski resort as well as the general safety rules of skiing, including how to safely merge, yield, and stop.
- Keep to the marked trails and stay away from steep hillsides with little vegetation which could be potential avalanche areas. Also, be on the lookout for rocks and patches of ice on ski trails.
- Upcoming storms and severe drops in temperature can affect your ski outing. Be sure to pay attention to the weather changes and warnings.
Above all, always come prepared
Use the buddy system and stay within sight of your partners. If you should lose one of your partners, stop and wait for everyone to catch up. Should you or one of your ski partners get injured, experience hypothermia, or sustain frostbite, seek shelter and medical attention immediately. Ensure that everyone in your party is aware of the correct procedures for seeking help in the case of an emergency.
