The snow might not be falling, but those winter sports are still calling! Whether your cup of tea is dashing down Mt. Aggie or ice skating at the rink, it’s important to keep your safety in mind. Learn about some common winter sports injuries and take the precautions to avoid them.
Just as with any physical activity, it’s possible to develop an injury from falls, twists, and awkward movements when participating in winter sports. Many injuries result from putting your arms out to break a fall. After an accident, if any of your limbs are swollen, tender, or can’t support weight, seek medical attention. A doctor will be able to determine the type of injury sustained and prescribe the proper treatment.
Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), or concussions, are the result of an impact to the head in which the brain hits the skull. Brain cells damaged in these collisions don’t function as they used to, which can lead to abrupt changes in mood, nausea, dizziness, and difficulty remembering information, among other things. If you experience a head injury followed by any of these symptoms, seek medical care immediately. Additionally, if you’re participating in a sport that encourages helmets, strap one on for your safety.
At the end of the day, when you’re tired and the warmth of the indoors is calling to you, listen to your gut. Joseph J. Iero, MD, orthopedic surgeon at St. Joseph Health, says, “Without adequate time to recuperate after workouts, you can overexert yourself, which may result in an injury. Knowing your limits to prevent pushing your body too far is a healthy way to avoid overuse injuries.”
If you experience severe symptoms after an accident this winter, don’t hesitate to seek immediate medical care at a St. Joseph Health emergency center. For minor injury treatment or preventive therapy, schedule an appointment with a St. Joseph Health sports medicine specialist.
Sources:
Stop Sports Injuries | Preventing Skiing and Snowboarding Injuries
NCBI | Skating on thin ice: a study of the injuries sustained at a temporary ice skating rink
CDC | Basic Information about Traumatic Brain Injury and Concussion
CDC | What are the Signs and Symptoms of Concussion?
Healthline | Ankle Sprain
Stop Sports Injuries | Overuse Injury
Learn about colorectal cancer, one of the leading causes of cancer deaths in the US. Despite being preventable, cases among people under 50 are increasing. Discover the truth behind common myths about this cancer and how to protect yourself
Read More Additional information about 8 Colorectal Cancer Myths Debunked: Separating Fact from Fiction
Going to the doctor can be stressful. Don't forget to ask questions! No issue is too small to discuss, and good communication is key for good care. Bring a list of questions to your appointment.
Read More Additional information about 9 Questions to Ask Your Doctor at Your Next Checkup | St. Joseph Health
Five interesting facts from St. Joseph Health that you should know about your spine.
Read More Additional information about 5 things to know about your spine | St. Joseph HealthLooking for a doctor? Perform a quick search by name or browse by specialty.
