After long hours of skiing, there are skiers who experience pain that radiates from their shins. If that happens to you during your skiing vacation, you may get your boots “bump” while skiing. This condition is formally known as shin bang, or hitting the shins on the front of the boots every time a skier flexes forward, causing a painful bruise. Here are some facts you need to know about the shin bang to avoid getting one during your ski vacation.
One of the most common reasons for getting a bump on the shin is wearing oversized boots. Wearing oversized boots means that your heels don’t stay in place perfectly, causing your feet to slide toward the front of the boots. This can end up landing in the back seat. So here are some ideas to avoid hurting your pimples.
Wearing perfectly fitting boots is one of the main recommendations to prevent a blow to the shin. Consultation with a professional boot fitter is recommended before hitting the slopes on your ski trip.
Although there are boots that fit perfectly, there are times when the linings have been packed away, putting the heels in a not-so-perfect spot. If it happens, use a footrest to help your feet stay still in the boots and keep you from landing in the back seat. Likewise, if your boots are loose on top (top cuff / top buckle), it tends to stand taller and makes the boots feel a bit softer, increasing the tendency to land on the backseat. So, use reinforcement straps to help you get a good fit.
If you are wearing your old or rented boots, try to find a pair that is snug but comfortable for you. It is recommended to add the padding of the boot with commercial gel inserts and poron pads, which absorb shock and prevent foot injury.
Also, wear ski specific socks that have extra padding in the shin and calf area to add cushioning. Additionally, elevating the calves and toes can help strengthen the shin muscles and protect the tongue bone from boots.
In case your shin gets hit, remember RICE: rest, ice, compression and elevation. Also, if you are experiencing pain, taking over-the-counter pain relievers would suffice.
So before you go on your skiing vacation, make sure that your boots do not cause you any inconvenience during your trip. Awareness is the key to avoiding getting hit on your pimple. Happy skiing!