Ski and Snowboard Injuries
Skiing and snowboarding are among the most popular winter sports. Injuries to the upper and lower extremities occur in a relatively predictable pattern. Fortunately, there are some ways to help decrease the chance for injuries.
Many winter sports injuries happen at the end of the day, when people overexert themselves to finish that one last run before the day's end. A majority of these injuries can easily be prevented if participants prepare for their sport by keeping in good physical condition, staying alert and stopping when they are tired or in pain.
HECTORPT encourages children and adults to follow these tips for preventing winter sports injuries:
- Never participate alone in a winter sport.
- Keep in shape and condition muscles before participating in winter activities.
- Warm up thoroughly before playing. Cold muscles, tendons and ligaments are vulnerable to injury.
- Wear appropriate protective gear, including goggles, helmets, gloves and padding.
- Check that equipment is in good working order and used properly.
- Buy and use helmets or protective head hear approved by the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM). These must fit correctly and be worn properly to be effective.
- Wear several layers of light, loose and water- and wind-resistant clothing for warmth and protection. Layering allows you to accommodate your body's constantly changing temperature. Wear proper footwear that provides warmth and dryness, as well as ample ankle support.
- Know and abide by all rules of the sport in which you are participating.
- Take a lesson (or several) from a qualified instructor, especially in sports like skiing and snow boarding. Learning how to fall correctly and safely can reduce the risk of injury.
- Pay attention to warnings about upcoming storms and severe drops in temperature to ensure safety.
- Seek shelter and medical attention immediately if you, or anyone with you, is experiencing hypothermia or frostbite. Make sure everyone is aware of proper procedures for getting help, if injuries occur.
- Drink plenty of water before, during, and after activities.
- Avoid participating in sports when you are in pain or exhausted.
- Avoid participating in winter sports if you are experiencing pain in your extremities, as this will affect your mechanics and increase the risk of falling.
- Do not participate in sports when you are ill, very tired, or have consumed alcohol.
- Report any signs or symptoms of concussions.
Stay safe this winter by following the above safety tips and common sense. A message from HECTORPT SPORTS Physical Therapy of Clifton Park and Albany NY.
www.hectorpt.com (518)577-5214
Tags: Albany Physical Therapy NY, Clifton Park Physical Therapy, Sports Therapy Albany NY, Sports Therapy Clifton Park Y