Each year, skiing holidays increase in popularity, as one of the most exhilarating winter sports with the snow-covered slopes, luxury resorts and après ski offering something for everyone.
Yet, with all sports holidays, comes the risk of injuries, whether you’re a seasoned skier or a complete
beginner.
Mr Saket Tibrewal, Consultant Trauma and Orthopaedic Surgeon at Cromwell Hospital shares his thoughts on why injuries are on the rise: “Every year I’m seeing more and more winter injuries, the majority are from skiing or snowboarding accidents which are usually broken bones (fractures) or ligament injuries in the knee.
“We’re also seeing a rise in people with ice skating injuries, these are most commonly ankle
sprains and fractures, particularly in children, and also knee, hip & wrist injuries from falling awkwardly.”
Statistics show that three injuries happen per 1,000 skiers with knee injuries accounting for 30 – 40% of all injuries.
Google data also shows big search increases linked to ski injuries with knees hurting after skiing and shin pain having 11 times as many searches in the last three months. ACL injuries from skiing has doubled in the last year.
Mr Tibrewal continued: “Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries are the most common injury that we see during the winter months. I’d say that 15-20% of my patients between January and April have sustained a knee injury whilst skiing.
The ACL is injured when skiers fall due to a twisting force across the knee, such as when the ski bindings do not release. ACL tears are also common with ‘extreme’ skiing and as this gains popularity, so does the rate of injuries.”
Dr Tibrewal shares his advice on how to prevent skiing injuries: Have a good level of physical fitness – If you lead a sedentary lifestyle or don’t exercise often, you may find skiing physically demanding.
It’s a good idea to start doing regular exercise to ensure a good level of fitness before your skiing trip.
Warm-up – As with all strenuous sports, warming up is very important to prevent injury, as cold muscles are more likely to become injured. Stretching or walking for 10 minutes before you start your day can help to warm up your body.
Stay hydrated and energised – It’s important to make sure you take regular breaks, drinking plenty of water and eating food which is high in protein to keep energy levels up.
If you’ve never skied before you’ll be surprised by how many calories you burn after a day on the slopes.
Know your skill level – Whether you’re new to the slopes or a seasoned skier, it’s important to know your level of ability.
If you start doing bigger slopes or runs that aren’t in your ability it may lead to injury. If you’re a complete beginner, skiing lessons may help you feel safe and confident.
Follow the safety rules and ski etiquette – Familiarise yourself with and follow the rules of the resort. Each ski resort has specific guidelines on speed limits, zones for beginners and areas to avoid.
Be respectful to other kiers by maintaining proper distance and communicating your movements clearly. Also make sure you wear the correct protective gear including a helmet.
Don’t overdo it – If you’re starting to feel tired or achy, listen to your body and slow down. Overexertion can leave to avoidable accidents and injuries and you’re more likely to get injured if you are tired.
If you do get injured while skiing, it’s important that you get the right treatment to help with recovery. If you sustain a serious injury, go to hospital as soon as possible.
Once you’re back home you’ll also need to see a doctor to help get you on the right treatment path.