The two most
common mechanisms of injuries in snowboarding are falling or a direct/traumatic
blow. The most commonly injured body parts are the arm, shoulder, head and
wrist. Many injuries are minor, but others can require surgery and have a
recovery time of 3 to 6 months.
Be smart and
take some precautions so that you can get the most out of this year’s snow and
not wind up in the ER. There are a few
simple precautions that one can take to prevent injury.
Take a Lesson
If you are
new to the sport, get a licensed instructor to help you learn the sport.
Instructors can be instrumental in helping you master the sport of snowboarding. They can make sure you have the proper
equipment and guide you to the appropriate training terrain. With an instructor, you will also be taught
proper techniques and form. An
instructor will even teach you the best way to fall without getting hurt.
Proper Equipment
Make sure
you have equipment that fits properly. This is extremely important. Bindings
that are too loose or too tight are definitely a contributing factor to many
injuries. Helmets are also extremely
important for injury prevention. In addition to a helmet, it is recommended
that boarders wear wrist guards, knee pads and elbow pads. It is estimated that using protective
equipment can reduce injuries by 43%!
Use Common Sense
Most
injuries occur after lunch, when the boarder is tired and fatigued. The conditions also change after lunch and
can become more icy or ‘skied-off’. Make
sure to stay hydrated, take breaks and stay alert. If you feel tired; stop and
rest.
Obey the Rules – National Ski
Associations Responsibility Code
Know the
code! Follow the responsibility code and
prevent injury.
·
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
There are many ways to prevent injury and stay
safe this year on the slopes. Be aware,
wear proper equipment and stop when you are tired. Follow these simple guidelines and have a
great time on the slopes!
John Vitolo, MD is an orthopedic surgeon in Sparta, NJ. He currently holds dual board certification
in Orthopedic Surgery and Sports Medicine. For more information visit us online
at www.skyvieworthopedic.com.
