Skiing and Snowboarding Injuries

Mizuta PT can help patients who have had a snowboarding/skiing injury or want to take preventative measures

The winter season his here, and while we don’t see it in San Diego, snow is likely on the horizon for other areas of the state and country. Last year, we had a surprising number of patients come in after skiing/snowboarding accidents despite our warm winter. With Big Bear only 2.5 hours away and Mammoth a 6 hour drive away, it is not surprising that some people head up north to enjoy the snow. If you are adventuring to the cooler climate for a weekend trip this year, here are some tips to avoid those nasty ski and snowboard injuries that could leave you visiting our clinic.

1. Know your level: We all want to be the next superstar on the slopes, but being realistic on your skills can keep you from running into a tree or cartwheeling down the hill. Falling, be it onto the snow, into a tree, or off a ledge is one of the most common ways to injure yourself with snow sports. Having a valid idea of your skill level can keep you from getting into dangerous scenarios and keep your ACLs and clavicles intact.

2. If you are tired, take a break or call it a day: The story is always the same, “I was on the last run of the day and was tired when…” Many of our patients with snowboarding or skiing incidents state that fatigue played a major factor in their fall. Not to mention, conditions change towards the afternoon, typically for the worst either into icy (if cold) or slushy (if too warm) creating more falls. If you are starting to feel tired, don’t chance another run. There are plenty of other things to enjoy on the mountain. Get some rest and try again tomorrow.