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Health: In Shape

Winter safety Tips to stay healthy while frolicking in the snow. By Amy BentleyPublished: February, 2006

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And we Southern Californians thought a trip to Big Bear, Lake Arrowhead or Mammoth was an excuse to have fun.  It’s also a recipe for injury, if not prepared, careful and aware. While winter recreations are a great form of exercise and fun, injuries abound. In 2004, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission 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 snowboarding; and 144,379 injuries from snow skiing. Injuries can include sprains and strains, dislocations, fractures and even death. “Playing sports in the cold and snow can take a toll on the body,” explains Dr. Matthew S. Shapiro, orthopaedic surgeon and secretary of American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons’ 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.”  – Dr. Matthew S. Shapiro The academy recommends adults and children follow these simple 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, so it is important to warm up thoroughly before playing. • Know and abide by all rules of the sport in which you are participating. • Wear appropriate protective gear, including goggles, helmets, gloves and padding. • Check to make sure equipment is in good working order and used properly. • 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. • Take a lesson (or several) from a qualified instructor, especially in sports like skiing and snowboarding. Beginners should avoid jumping maneuvers. • When falling, try to fall on your side or buttocks. Roll over naturally, turning your head in the direction of the roll. • Pay attention to warnings about upcoming storms and severe drops in temperature to ensure safety. • Become familiar with the whereabouts of fences, trees, rocks, open water and patches of ice. • 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. • Be prepared for emergency situations and have a plan to reach medical personnel to treat injuries.  For additional injury prevention tips and information on winter sports and more, please visit the academy’s public and patient education website, “Your  Orthopaedic Connection” (www.orthoinfo.org), or call the  Public Service line at 800.824.BONES.  This report was provided by the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons.

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