Skiing Safety Tips from an Orthopedist

A momentary lapse in judgment on the ski slopes may sideline you for weeks. And some skiing injuries cause significant damage, requiring physical therapy or even surgery.

“Skiers injure their knees more often than any other body part. Many people damage their anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) or medial collateral ligament (MCL),” says orthopedic sports medicine expert, Matthew Counihan, M.D. “Other common injury sites include the shoulder, thumb, head, leg and wrist. Dislocations, sprains, strains, fractures, concussions and traumatic brain injuries are all possible.”

How can you stay safe this winter? Dr. Counihan shares 8 tips to stay safe on the slopes. 

1. Get Fitted for Ski Equipment

It’s important to wear skis and boots that were chosen for you. Also, make sure that the bindings are adjusted for your weight and ability.

“Some people borrow a friend’s skis to save money on rental costs, but you’re more likely to injure yourself in equipment that was sized for another person,” says Dr. Counihan.

2. Wear a Helmet

Put on a well-fitting ski helmet (not a bike helmet) whenever you ski. You’ll reduce your likelihood of having a serious head injury.

Ski helmets have helped to make skiing a safer sport in recent years. The number of traumatic brain injuries has decreased over time because of helmet use.

3. Take Ski Lessons

Everyone who skis for the first time should take an introductory lesson. Skiing is a learned skill, so even adults need lessons to become competent.

After a lesson, you’ll feel more confident about your ability to function on skis. You’ll learn how to turn, stop and fall safely, which may help prevent injury.

4. Choose an Appropriate Ski Trail

You may love a good challenge, but avoid trails that are too advanced. To improve as a skier, choose slightly harder trails, not extremely difficult runs.

Advanced trails are likely to have sharp turns, trees near the path and moguls. You may collide with a tree or fall after skiing over bumpy moguls.

Don’t ski above your ability just to keep up with your friends. Choosing a trail that matches your skill level should help you avoid injury. 

5. Pay Attention to Other Skiers

Sometimes, collisions between skiers, or skiers and snowboarders, lead to significant injury. Being aware of your surroundings may help you avoid collisions with others.

Look for slower skiers who might cross your path as you overtake them. Also listen for skiers behind you who may speed past without announcing themselves.

6. Learn How to Fall

If you’re falling, you may instinctively try to break the fall with your hands. Skiers who do this may break their wrists or injure their hands.

Try falling differently – try not to tense up and fall to your butt or drop to your knees. If you have to reach out to slow your fall, put out your forearms to brace yourself, not your hands.

7. Ski Sober

If you drink at lunch, take a break from skiing until you’re sober again. Your judgment and reflexes will be impaired, which increases the risk of injury.

 People who ski while under the influence are more likely to crash or fall. You may not turn as precisely as you want to, sending you off-course.

8. Stop When You’re Tired

Call it a day when you’re feeling exhausted from an afternoon of skiing. When you’re tired, you won’t ski your A-game, which could lead to injury.

Fatigue may cause lapses in judgment or delayed reactions, which may cause skiing errors. Feeling chilled after spending the day outside may impact your flexibility, leading to injury.

Next Steps & Resources:

• Meet our source: Matthew Counihan, M.D.
• To make an appointment with Dr. Counihan, or a doctor near you, call 800-822-8905 or visit our website. 
• Learn more about our orthopedic care at Hackensack Meridian Health.

The material provided through HealthU is intended to be used as general information only and should not replace the advice of your physician. Always consult your physician for individual care.