01 Jul Common Injuries in Skiing and Snowboarding
Snow skiing and snowboarding are exhilarating winter sports enjoyed by millions worldwide. However, like all sports, they come with their own set of risks and potential injuries. Understanding the common injuries, their mechanisms, and incident rates can help enthusiasts take preventive measures and seek timely treatment. Here, we outline some of the most common injuries in snow skiing and snowboarding.
ACL Tears
Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tears are among the most common skiing injuries, and research has shown they account for approximately 15-20% of all skiing injuries. The ACL is a key stabiliser of the knee joint and helps restrict the shin bone moving excessively forward and rotational movements at the knee joint. It is often injured when a skier’s knee twists forcefully while the foot remains planted, typically during a fall or abrupt stop. A torn ACL is one of the most debilitating often requiring surgery and up to 12 months of rehabilitation for full recovery.
MCL Injuries
Medial collateral ligament (MCL) injuries have been reported to represent about 20-30% of all knee injuries in skiing in studies. The MCL is another key stabiliser of the knee joint, this time providing stability along the medial (inside) part of the knee. It is usually injured due to a direct blow to the outside of the knee, often seen in collisions on the slopes, or also commonly in skiing when the skis move in opposite directions- forcing the knees to move inwards. The degree of injury can vary from mild sprains to more significant tears and even rupture.
Shoulder Dislocations
Shoulder dislocations have been reported to account for about 10% of snowboarding injuries and 5% of skiing injuries. The common mechanism is from falling onto an outstretched arm or directly onto the shoulder- which then causes a dislocation.
Wrist Fractures
Wrist fractures are reported to make up nearly 25% of all snowboarding injuries. Snowboarders are particularly susceptible to these injuries, as often when a snowboarder falls and particularly for learners, the initial reaction to outstretch your hands to stop a fall. Unfortunately the direct impact can lead to fracture in the bones in the wrist.
Head Injuries
Head injuries account for about 10-15% of all snow sports injuries in studies. Head injuries includes concussions and traumatic brain injuries. Some of the common reasons are collisions with other skiers and snowboarders, or obstacles (trees, barriers), and high speed falls with or without the head hitting the snow. Wearing a helmet significantly reduces the risk, while also choosing slopes to your ability.
Skier’s Thumb
The name says it all, and it accounts for about 8-10% of skiing injuries. This injury occurs when the thumb is forcefully bent backwards, often when skiers fall while holding onto their ski poles. It involves damage to the ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) of the thumb.
Ankle Sprains
Although you are wearing a solid boot, ankle sprains occur and have been reported to be around 15-20% of snowboarding injuries. Ankle sprains happen when the foot twists inward or outward, stretching or tearing the ligaments. Snowboarders are more prone to this due to the lateral movements involved in the sport. Boot’s that don’t fit correctly could make you more susceptible.
Spinal Injuries
Although spinal injuries represent about 1-2% of snow sports injuries, they can be highly impactful on your long-term health. In most cases, high-speed falls or collisions lead to spinal injuries, including fractures and herniated discs. These injuries can be severe and require immediate medical attention.
Facial Injuries
Facial injuries occur in about 3-5% of skiing and snowboarding accidents. Falls and collisions which leads to direct impact to the face- can cause facial injuries such as fractures, lacerations, and dental injuries. Goggles and helmets provide some protection and can reduce the risk of injury.
Back Pain
Back pain has been reported by 20-30% of recreational skiers and snowboarders, with higher rates among those who participate frequently or at a competitive level. Back pain in skiing and snowboarding is often caused by postural stressors, improper technique, or falls. The repetitive bending and twisting motions can lead to strain of soft tissue structures of the lower back. Additionally, carrying heavy gear can contribute to back discomfort.
Understanding the common injuries associated with snow skiing and snowboarding, along with their mechanisms and incident rates, can help enthusiasts take preventive measures. Wearing appropriate protective gear, proper fitting equipment, maintaining good physical condition, and staying aware of surroundings can help reduce the risk of injury. Should an injury occur, seeking prompt medical attention ensures a better recovery and a quicker return to the slopes. Enjoy the snow safely!
Want to learn more? Click below for some more related information
References
Brophy et al. (2023). Clinical Practice Guideline Case Study: Management of Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injuries, American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons.
Audet, O., Hagel, B. E., Nettel-Aguirre, A., Mitra, T., Emery, C. A., Macpherson, A., … & Goulet, C. (2019). What are the risk factors for injuries and injury prevention strategies for skiers and snowboarders in terrain parks and half-pipes? A systematic review. British journal of sports medicine, 53(1), 19-24.
Hagel, B. (2005). Skiing and snowboarding injuries. Epidemiology of pediatric sports injuries: individual sports, 48, 74-119.
Owens, B. D., Nacca, C., Harris, A. P., & Feller, R. J. (2018). Comprehensive review of skiing and snowboarding injuries. JAAOS-Journal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, 26(1), e1-e10..
Hunter, R. E. (1999). SkiinMoore, T. P. (2000). Snowboarding injuries. British Journal of Sports Medicine, 34(2), 79-79.g injuries. The American Journal of Sports Medicine, 27(3), 381-389.
Fu, X. L., Du, L., Song, Y. P., Chen, H. L., & Shen, W. Q. (2022). Incidence of injuries in professional snow sports: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Journal of sport and health science, 11(1), 6-13.alpine skiing injuries. The American Journal of Sports Medicine, 40(4), 770-776.
Dickson, T. J., & Terwiel, F. A. (2021). Injury trends in alpine skiing and a snowboarding over the decade 2008–09 to 2017–18. Journal of science and medicine in sport, 24(10), 1055-1060.