Skiing Injuries and Prevention Methods

Skiing is one of the most popular winter activities. Nothing beats flying down the mountain, feeling the fresh air against your skin. But, this winter activity can result in several injuries if you do not take proper precautions. In 2018, more than 76,000 people suffered skiing related injuries. With the help of our orthopedic surgeon Paramus, NJ at New York Sports Medicine Institute, we can help you prepare and prevent your body from the usual wear and tear that skiing has on the body. 

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Common Skiing Injuries

Skiing injuries can occur due to the twisting and turning involved, the falls that happen, and the slippery terrain that you are on. Skiers are most prone to knee, head, neck, back, shoulder, and hand injuries. Common ski injuries include:

  • Meniscus tears- The meniscus is cartilage in your knee that allows your knee to move in a smooth motion. The twisting and turning movements that are involved in skiing can tear this cartilage resulting in an injury. While some tears are minimal, others may require surgery to fix.
  • Concussions- In many cases, when skiers fall, there is a risk that they may hit their head, causing a concussion. If not carefully monitored, concussions can cause many complications.
  • Torn Rotator Cuffs- This injury occurs when the tendon in your shoulder gets torn. The tear is usually a result of overuse or a fall. 
  • Herniated Disks- Herniated disks can be the result of a fall. A fall can cause a disc in your spine to rupture, which irritates your nerves and results in back pain. Depending on the severity of the injury, surgery may be required. 
  • Wrist Fractures- In many cases, when skiers fall, they use their hands to help break the fall, causing the bones to fracture or break. 

Many of these injuries can be treated at home, depending on the severity of the injury. If the damage is severe, you may need surgery. Whether your injury is minor or severe, our orthopedic surgeon Paramus, NJ at New York Sports Medicine Institute can help you heal from your injuries and get you back on the mountain!

Ski Injury Prevention Methods

There are many steps that you can take to prevent injuries from occurring while skiing. These prevention methods can be taken both at home and on the mountain. You can avoid ski-related injuries by: 

  • Warming Up– Before hitting the slopes, it is important to warm up and loosen your muscles. Having warm muscles makes you less prone to injuries. Warm-ups can include light cardio, stretching or a few slow runs down the mountain.
  • Wearing Protective Gear– Protective gear can save you from various injuries. Protective gear can include helmets, knee braces, goggles, and wrist guards. To ensure maximum safety, make sure that all your equipment fits comfortably and correctly. 
  • Taking Ski Lessons– Taking lessons with a trained professional can help you learn various tips and tricks to ski safely. By attending ski lessons, you can learn proper technique and learn how to stop and fall properly, and how to get up safely. Lessons can also help you familiarize yourself with the safety rules and regulations of the mountain. 
  • Maintaining Fitness– Staying in shape before and after ski season will help build up your muscles. Strengthening key muscles can reduce your risk of injury. 
  • Know Your Limits– It is important to listen to your body and to know your limits. Going on slopes that are too advanced for you or continuing to ski when tired increases your chances of getting hurt. When you are too tired or the trail you are on is too advanced for you, your technique often becomes sloppy, resulting in injury. 

Being prepared for skiing can save you from injuring yourself and others. If you are looking for additional prevention methods, consider contacting our orthopedic surgeon Paramus, NJ. Our physical therapy and orthopedic services can help your body prepare for physical activities, such as skiing.

Contact Our Orthopedic Surgeon Paramus, NJ

If you are looking for online physical therapy services, consider New York Sports Medicine Institute. Our trained physical therapists understand that each patient is unique and will create a program for you based on your individual needs, all without having to leave your home! Contact us today to learn more about our services. 

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