Top tips to stay safe on your skiing holiday

 

BUMPS, bruises and knee injuries are just a few common skiing problems but follow this orthopaedic surgeon's advice to keep fit on and off the piste

In the coming weeks, thousands of us will flee Britain for snow-dusted slopes, blue skies and a healthy dose of après ski.

But although hurtling at full speed down a mountain can be exhilarating, the sport is not without its dangers. While cross-country skiing in Switzerland over Christmas, German Chancellor Angela Merkel fell and injured her pelvis, just days after champion racing driver Michael Schumacher sustained a critical head injury skiing off piste in the French Alps.

Around 10,000 British skiers and snowboarders are taken to hospital with injuries such as concussion, broken bones, sprained wrists or torn ligaments, suffered on their winter sports holiday.

With rising numbers of new skiers every year taking on unfamiliar runs, it is crucial that we take care of ourselves.

Aside from simple bumps and bruises, injuries to the knees are one of the most common problems for alpine skiers.

The key injuries to watch out for are:

* Medial ligament sprains characterized by an acute pain on the inside of the knee

* Meniscal tears that cause pain and swelling within the knee.

* Anterior cruciate ligament injuries, typically a result of a twisting fall where the binding on the ski doesn’t release, resulting in rapid swelling of the knee.

* Fractures can be severe and will need treatment to rebuild shattered bone, possibly overseas.

To reduce your risk of major injuries follow these tips:

1 Get fit

The greatest single cause of injury is a lack of fitness. Skiing is an intensive sport and hard work considering you are at 2,000 meters above sea level.

Prepare your body for the daily physical exertion by getting into shape before the holiday. Look out for physiotherapy centres that offer intensive ski fit programs.

2 Be aware of your skiing ability
It is absolutely crucial that your bindings are secured appropriately for your level of ability. Be honest in the ski-hire shop when you are asked about your aptitude.
If your bindings are too tight, they will increase your risk of injury if you are only a beginner.

3 Don’t drink and ski

You wouldn’t drive after a bottle of wine, would you? If you are involved in an accident you may be breathless so act responsibly.

4 Be sure your boots are the right fit
Ensure they aren’t too loose; a tight fit may be uncomfortable but loose boots can be dangerous as they can reduce the amount of control you have over your skis.

5 Obey the rules of the mountain
As a general rule you should always expect the worst from your fellow skiers. Not everyone on the mountainside will be skilled or confident so always be on the lookout for those who are lacking in control.