Preventing Ski & Snowboard Injury

Many snow sport injuries are traumatic and caused by dangerous terrain, falls, or collisions. While the chance of injury is small in the general population, the fact that injuries while skiing or snowboarding tend to be severe justifies caution and forethought before participating in the sport. Parents with participating children have the added responsibility of making sure the child is appropriately prepared with equipment, training, and guidance while participating.

Injuries associated with skiing and snowboarding include anterior cruciate or collateral (ACL) ligament injuries, shoulder dislocations and fractures, spinal injuries, knee and ankle sprains and fractures, as well as wrist, hand or thumb injuries. The injury rate for snowboarding is about four to six per thousand persons per day; this is around double the injury rate for alpine skiing. Injuries are more likely with beginners, especially those who do not take lessons with professional instructors.

Many skiing and snowboarding incidents occur due to loss of control. Skiers and snowboarders are usually moving too fast or on a slope that is beyond their ability. A quarter of all injuries occur to first-time riders and half of all injuries occur to those with less than a year of experience. Experienced riders are less likely to suffer injury, but the injuries that do occur tend to be more severe. Most deaths and injuries occur to skiers and snowboarders with high-risk behavior.

There are several common sense guidelines that most skiing and snowboarding experts recommend.

Proper instruction – Instruction prior to getting on the slope is an important first step. An instructor will help a beginner to understand the importance of hydration, the risk of fatigue, the importance of good warm-up and cool-down, and safety techniques unique to the sport.

Proper equipment – The right equipment is crucial. Improperly adjusted equipment, improperly sized equipment, or equipment improper for the terrain can greatly increase the risk of injury. In terrain parks, wrist, elbow and knee pads are recommended. While not required in all locations, many experts recommend the use of helmets when skiing or snowboarding.

Proper clothing – Clothing can help protect against frostbite and hypothermia. Multiple layers with outer layers that are moisture or wind resistant are recommended.

Parental Oversight – Parents play an important role in educating children on skiing and snowboarding safety. They should monitor the terrain children are using and help them avoid those beyond their level of expertise. Parents should monitor their children to ensure they are taking appropriate rest brakes and hydration.

Follow the National Ski Areas Responsible Code:

Always stay in control
People ahead of you have the right-of-way
Stop in a safe place for you and others
Whenever starting downhill or merging, look uphill and yield
Use devices to help prevent runaway equipment
Observe signs and warnings, and keep off closed trails
Know how to use the lifts safely

Skiing and snowboarding are attracting more people each year, but as the popularity of these sports increase, so do the number of accidents. Preparation for snow sports should begin before the season starts with proper conditioning and instruction. Following posted guidelines and being proactive in injury prevention can ensure that the participant will continue to enjoy the sport through season without being sidelined because of a painful injury.