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Skiing Injury Prevention FAQ

Skiing Injury Prevention FAQ

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May 5, 2012
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Did you know…

  1. Most common upper body injury is Skier’s Thumb, in which the thumb is bent backward or to the side when one falls.  This accounts for 8-10% of ski injuries.
  2. Lower body injuries are most common at the knee, accounting for roughly 40% of all ski injuries.
  3. The most common knee injury occurs to the medial collateral ligament (MCL).
  4. 5% of all ski related injuries occur to the head.

Should I wear a helmet?
Yes, wearing a helmet can help prevent head injuries such as a concussion.

Should I take a lesson? 
Yes, studies have shown the incidence of injury drops by one half when beginners participate in a supervised ski lesson.

How can I stay warm while skiing or taking part in any winter outdoor activity?

  1. LAYER UP: Begin with soft clothing and end with something waterproof.
  2. AVOID COTTON: Once cotton is wet it stays wet which will make you colder and give you the chills.
  3. CHOOSE PROPER ACCESSORIES: Wear clothes that fit.  Choose waterproof gloves.
  4. USE HEAT PACKS: Place them in your gloves and boots for added warmth.
  5. EAT: This will help keep your body warm.  Have a warm drink as well.
  6. MOVE: Keep moving to stay warm. This helps generate heat and keeps circulation going.
  7. WEAR HEAD GEAR: This protects against head injury and keeps one from losing heat through the head.


What is frostbite?
When skin is exposed to cold temperatures, it and underlying tissues can freeze.

What are signs of frostbite?

  1. It occurs most frequently on exposed skin such as hands, cheeks, nose and ears.
  2. Early warning signs include numbness and loss of feeling.
  3. Skin may also look white or grayish-yellow; and has a hard, waxy feel.
  4. Get out of the cold immediately if you suspect you have frostbite; slowly warm the affected area and contact a doctor.


What is Hypothermia?
Hyperthermia is a decrease in core body temperature in which normal muscular and cerebral functions are impaired.

What are signs of hypothermia?

  1. Hypothermia symptoms include intense shivering, slurred speech, loss of coordination and fatigue.
  2. Other signs include altered levels of consciousness, erratic breathing and lowered heart rate.
  3. If you suspect hypothermia remove wet clothes and get dry; cover body with wool blankets or clothing.  Contact emergency help immediately.

To further protect yourself when involved in an outdoor winter activity, try to have a partner or group with you for added safety.

Sources:

  • Exercise and cold weather: Tips to stay safe outdoors. Mayo Clinic 2010.
  • Frosbite first aid. Mayo Clinic.
  • Curtis, Rick. Outdoor action guide to hypothermia and cold weather injuries. Princeton University. November 2012.
  • Dermody, K.C. Most common skiing injuries and how to prevent them.
  • Mitchell, Tamara.  The ergonomics of skiing and snow boarding
  • Corfield, Chris.  7 Ways to stay warm while skiing.  October 2012.