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 JAUNARY 31, 2007 Don't Let Ski Injuries Keep You Off the Slopes If you are among the more than 28 million Americans who take to the slopes each winter, you know that skiing and snowboarding are among the most physically demanding sports. The most relied-upon ligaments - and the most prone to injury - in skiing and snowboarding are those of the knees (about 25% of all ski injuries), followed by the hands. While knee ligament strains and tears can occur during active skiing and boarding, most injuries to the thumb happen during a fall, when the grip on the ski pole can jam the thumb backwards - causing an injury known as "skier's thumb." The good news is that most ski- and snowboard-related ligament injuries are not serious if you recognize and treat them properly. Here's how to maximize your recovery: Recognize the injury - The temptation to ski or board through an injury, especially if it's the first day of the weekend or a vacation, is understandably high. You need to recognize the injury and relieve pressure on the ligaments immediately to reduce the long-term effects of the injury and get you back on the slopes as quickly as possible. Sudden pain after a fall or during a maneuver in which the ligaments are in flex, or a "popping" sound in the knee followed by acute pain, are signs of ligament injury. Get help getting off the slope. RICE - This old standby stands for Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation. It's important to ice a sore joint for 20 minutes on, then 20 minutes off for the first few hours. If swelling and pain become worse during that time, seek medical attention. Consult an expert - Even if you feel somewhat better after self-treatment, you probably should have a sports medicine specialist evaluate any serious injury. Physical therapy, an orthopedic brace or other device, or a splint may help speed your healing. |
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