Common Ski Injuries

The majority of skiers ski year in year out and never have any nasty ski injuries. But there are some common injuries to skiers it can be useful to be aware of. The most likely part of the body for skiers to injure is the knee which accounts for 45% of skiing injuries. The body position in skiing and speed and change of direction makes the knee prone to injury. Some of the most common knee injuries are listed here.

Ligament damage

Most common injury in skiing is damage to the medial collateral ligament which runs on the outer side of the knee. Symptoms of this type of injury include pain, swelling and restricted range of movement around the area. To treat this type of injury, if it is minor, can involve rest, ice and anti inflammatory medication but if the sprain is serious you could find yourself on crutches and needing a course of physiotherapy.

Knee dislocations

These can be caused by a sudden change of direction. The kneecap can be slipped back into place but can be extremely painful. Rest, ice and anti inflammatory medicine will be needed.

Shoulder injuries

Can also be extremely common in skiing. These are usually caused by falls or awkward landings. Some skiers who do tricks and jumps can also have lots of shoulder problems. The most common shoulder injuries are:

Rotator cuff strains

Known commonly as tendonitis where the tendons around the muscle become swollen.

Fractured collarbone

Caused by an impact whilst skiing or simply falling.

Shoulder dislocation

Usually caused by a high speed fall which results in the skier landing in an awkward position.

Spinal injuries

Can also occur in skiing due to the speed of movement and also the unpredictability of the surroundings. They tend to occur when there is a fall.

Thumbs

Can also come in for a battering whilst skiing and whilst they may not be seen as serious as the spine or knees a thumb fracture can be quite painful. In addition there is a condition known as 'skier’s thumb' where the thumb becomes strained usually due to a fall. Ski poles can also increase pressure on the thumb which in turn may contribute to ligament damage.

A lot of injuries sustained during skiing could be prevented by regular exercise before you go skiing which will increase fitness and loosen joints. Many skiers hit the slopes having given no thought to preparing their bodies for what they are about to do. Do prepare your body before you go to help you avoid minor aches and pains and also more serious injury.

Also it is important to maintain a healthy and stable weight, this is particularly important with the knees as this prevents excess weight being put upon them.

By Will Smith