As winter approaches, to many that means one thing- it’s ski season! Resorts and lodges start seeing more visitors, and the slopes starting seeing some traffic. As the slopes begin to fill, the lanes will be filled with skiers of all skill levels and experience. You may pass someone that’s a beginner, novice, or pro athlete looking to practice new skills or tricks. No matter what level you are, injuries are not selective and can affect anyone at any skill level.

Common ski injuries include:

  • Lower Body:
  • Ankle Sprain and Instability
  • Achilles Tendon Problems
  • Achilles Tendonopathy
  • Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injuries
  • Medial Collateral Ligament Injuries

Upper Body Ski Injuries:

  • Skier’s Thumb
  • Wrist Ligament Injuries
  • Rotator Cuff Tears
  • Shoulder Instability and Dislocations
  • Acromio-clavicular (A-C) Joint Separation

Preventing Ski Injuries

Part of any prevention is preparation. Some exercises done beforehand can help prep your core, lower body, and arms. Exercises such as squats, planking, and skaters done for three or four weeks regularly before your trip can help avoid fatigue and injury. Another part of the preparation process is making sure you have the right equipment and that you’re using that equipment properly.

Too often skiers use poor technique and form and think they can do more than their skill level can manage. Once this happens, that is when we see the chance of injury increase.

Some other factors to consider are:

  • Time spent active without rest
  • Dehydration & fatigue
  • Going off the trail or attempting to ski in closed areas
  • Failure to adhere to posted warnings

You’ve heard the old saying, ‘it’s all fun and games until someone gets hurt’. It’s important to stay safe while having fun. If you planning a ski trip this season, talk to your physical therapist and let them know what you plan on doing so they can create an exercise plan to keep you strong for your entire trip and afterwards.

If you are currently experiencing pain and would like a professional opinion/assessment, sign-up for a FREE Pain Assessment. We will then contact you to schedule an appointment for you to come in and have someone take a look. Our goal is to get you healthy for life!