Utah’s mountains are known for the “Greatest Snow on Earth.” In 2013, local resorts had 4.2 million skier visits, which is the third best season on record, according to the Utah Tourism Industry Association. Many of our therapists love hitting fresh powder on the weekends, but the fu
n of skiing or snowboarding can also lead to injuries. Researchers at John Hopkins recently estimated that about 600,000 people nationally are injured each year as a result of skiing and snowboarding. Here are just a few of the kinds of injuries that can happen:
- ACL tears
- Wrist fractures
- Concussions
- Rotator cuff injuries
- Broken collar bones
- Broken wrists
- Knee and ankle sprains
To help avoid injuries, we recommend that you warm up and stretch properly before strapping in and heading up on the ski lift. Make sure you know your skill level and don’t push yourself into terrain above your abilities. Investing in protective gear such as helmets, wrist guards, and elbow guards can help add padding when falls occur. Stay in shape during the week to help your body recover easier from a weekend on the mountain.
If an accident or injury does occur, let our skilled physical therapists help you recover quickly.
