Prevent Winter Sports Injuries American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) AgeVenture News Service, 12-23-05 Winter means snow, and with snow comes the variety of winter sports kids and adults of all ages enjoy. Whether on ice, hills, slopes or mountains, hours are spent participating in activities ranging from ice hockey and ice skating to sledding, snow boarding and snow skiing. According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS), if the proper precautions are not taken to ensure warmth and safety, severe injuries can occur. Winter sports are a great form of exercise and fun, injuries from these activities garner a significant amount of attention at hospital emergency rooms, doctors’ offices and clinics. In 2004, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) reported 51,524 injuries from ice hockey 49,600 injuries from ice skating 74,000 injuries from sledding, snow tubing and tobogganing 35,483 injuries from snowmobiling 143,990 injuries from snow boarding 144,379 injuries from snow skiing. Injuries can include sprains and strains, dislocations, fractures and even death. “Playing s ports in the cold and snow can take a toll on the body ,” explained Matthew S. Shapiro, MD, orthopaedic surgeon and secretary of AAOS’ Board of Councilors . “Keeping in proper physical condition and wearing the appropriate clothing and protective gear are key ways to minimize winter sports-related injuries.” The Academy offers these tips to help prevent winter sports injuries. Never ski, sled, ice skate or snowboard alone. Keep in shape and condition muscles before partaking in winter activities. Cold muscles, tendons and ligaments are vulnerable to injury. Warm up before playing. Wear appropriate protective gear, including goggles, helmets, gloves and padding. For warmth and protection, wear several layers of light, loose and water-and wind-resistant clothing. Layering allows you to accommodate your body's constantly changing temperature. Wear proper footwear that provides warmth and dryness, as well as ample ankle support. When falling, try to fall on your side or buttocks. Roll over naturally, turning your head in the direction of the roll. Stay on marked trails and avoid potential avalanche areas, such as steep hillsides with little vegetation. Avoid participating in sports when experiencing pain or exhaustion. Take rest breaks and replenish fluids during and after play. Access your Orthopaedic Connection (www.orthoinfo.org), or call the Public Service line at 800-824-BONES. An orthopaedic surgeon is a physician with extensive training in the diagnosis and treatment of non-surgical as well as surgical treatment of the musculoskeletal system including bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, muscles and nerves. SEE RELATED ARTICLES IN THE AGEVENTURE ARCHIVES AgeVenture Lifestyle Features AgeVenture Headline News BACK TO TOP