Skiing Injuries - Commonly Asked Questoins And Thier Answers

Are snowboarders more likely to break their wrists, and can wrist guards help prevent this?
The incident of an upper limb injury is twice as high amongst snowboarders compared to skiers. The wrist is the most common site of injury among snowboarders and is an area which is rarely injured when skiing. Studies indicate that 25% of all snowboarding injuries affect the wrist joint and 70% of these were fractures.

At present approximately 15% of all snowboarders world wide wear wrist guards and there is evidence to support that a wrist brace can be effective in preventing wrist fractures. There are many different types of braces on the market. A wrist brace that travels at least half the length of the forearm and has some flexibility (rather than a completely rigid one) are graving more common.

I have injured my knee in the past, should I wear a knee brace when I ski?
The most important part of rehabilitation after a knee injury is to restore full leg strength and confidence in your knee. Mild compression around the knee joint provided by a brace has been shown to improve proprioception (the ability to detect movement and position) of the knee joint in normal knees. In a previously injured knee, which may have decreased proprioception, the compression offered by a brace (elastic, neoprene, Bioskin) can help to improve your confidence in your knee. However, a lack of confidence in your knee is an indication that it has not been fully rehabilitated. Further strength and proprioception exercises can help to restore full function to your knee and enhance your enjoyment from skiing.

How soon should I see a physiotherapist after spraining an ankle?
ASAP, especially if the ankle swells. Taping techniques can both help reduce the swelling and protect from further injury, leading to faster recovery as there will be less scar tissue to remodel. Don’t forget to R.I.C.E (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation).

How long should I hold a stretch and how many times should I repeat the stretch?
You should hold a stretch for at least 1 minute and then repeat the stretch 2-3 times.

Why 1 minute and why do I have to repeat the stretch?
It takes time for the muscles to respond to a stretch. This method of stretching is effective in producing the desired effect. The more frequently you stretch the easier it will be and the more flexible you will become.

Should I use heat or ice if I injure myself?
Ice should be used for up to three days following an injury, this will help to reduce the amount of pain, muscle spasm, swelling and also soft tissue damage, by decreasing the circulation to the area. A damp towel should be applied between the ice pack and the skin to avoid ‘ice burn’. Applications should be for 20-30 minutes each time.

By Andrew Gladstone - State Registered Chiropodist