’Tis the season for winter sports, which means it’s also the season for skiing and snowboarding injuries that require orthopedic care. There is always inherent risk when gliding down a snowy mountain at high speeds. Here are a few simple tips that may help reduce your risk of serious injury on the slopes this season.
First, make sure to always use the proper equipment. Your bindings should be set, adjusted, maintained and tested following the American Society of Testing and Materials (ASTM) standards. They should also be properly adjusted to your height, weight and skiing ability.
Second, choose ski runs that match your skill level. Skiing or snowboarding beyond your ability results in a higher risk of accidents that can cause shoulder, leg or knee injuries. We recommend ski lessons for all beginners, but even experienced skiers and snowboarders can learn a thing or two from a good instructor.
Warm up properly, stay hydrated and remember that, as the day wears on, so does your stamina and strength. Don’t save the most challenging run for your last. In fact, assess your tiredness and consider foregoing that last run of the day. Secure your physical health for another day on the mountain.
Finally, practice safety and be aware of those around you, but always ski or snowboard with partners and stay within sight of each other.
We want you to have fun on the slopes this year, but be careful. Proliance Orthopedic Associates specializes in orthopedic surgery and other orthopedic care for winter sports injuries, but we prefer that you don’t get injured in the first place.
If you require surgery for ACL tears, broken collarbones or other orthopedic injuries, you can contact POA for an appointment at (425) 656-5060.