Changes in modern ski equipment, improvements in slope design and maintenance helped reduce the incidence of serious injuries. However, we must keep in mind that there are still a significant number of ski injuries that can possibly occur during your ski trips.

According to the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM), studies have shown that the top injuries skiers suffer are sprains, fractures, lacerations, and dislocations. Today, knee ligament injury is a more common injury that happens to skiers.

Several studies have shown that the most common knee injury is a medial collateral ligament (MCL) injury. Physical Therapist Jennifer Lewis of Athletes’ Performance in Phoenix, Arizona, explains that “MCL injuries occur when a sudden force or twisting motion is applied to the outside of the knee forcing the knee inward, most often when the foot is resting on the ground. ” Generally, all grades of MCL sprains can be managed with braces and limited range of motion.

Another type of knee injury is damage to the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL). ACSM explains that the injury occurs when the lower leg suddenly twists and pulls away from the upper leg as “grabbing the edge.” This injury is usually triggered by a fall backward when the lower leg moves forward. This type of injury often requires surgical repair and extensive rehabilitation.

According to ACSM, 30 to 40 percent of all injuries are caused by injuries to the upper extremities. The most vulnerable part of the upper body is the thumb. Thumb ulnar collateral ligament injury occurs when a skier falls onto an outstretched arm that is still gripping the pole. The thumb is suddenly pulled outward, injuring this joint. Thumb sprains are classified as first, second, or third degree, depending on the severity of the ligament damage. It may be just a thumb, but when a thumb injury is not properly cared for, it can result in long-term disability.

Another injury to the upper extremities is shoulder dislocation. After rehabilitating the dislocated shoulder, it is important to protect the joint to prevent recurrence. Despite rehabilitation programs designed to strengthen the shoulder, dislocation is still possible. Surgical repairs are often necessary to repair dislocated joints and restore their functional status.

The experts speak

According to ACSM, skiing should be stopped if it causes more pain. In case of injuries during skiing holidays, remember these initial first aid: rest, ice, compression and elevation. They also recommend that injuries be properly evaluated and treated by appropriate medical personnel. Additionally, performing sport-specific exercises will help delay muscle fatigue that often contributes to injury.

In addition, they also recommend taking lessons to increase skiing ability and appreciation of different ski conditions. Similarly, good equipment that is properly installed and maintained by a certified ski shop will minimize risks. Skiers who understand the risks of the sport have a better chance of avoiding serious injury.

With the improved equipment used in skiing, the risk of serious injury on ski trips is minimal. However, let’s not forget that certain injuries can still occur if we do not observe proper safety measures.

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