02/16/2022
Are you enjoying the winter Olympics as much as we do? Perhaps while you are enjoying the winter sporting extravaganza, you are eager to partake yourself? Certainly, some sports are not meant for everyone, and overexerting yourself can leave injuries such as sprains, strains, dislocations and fractures. But there are fun and healthy activities that you can enjoy safely, and here are some injury prevention tips you should practice. Rule of thumb: respect the boundaries. If you are a skier or a snowboarder, be cognizant of your surroundings and avoid dangerous terrains. Winter weather can be ruthless! So, pay attention to storm warnings and severe temperature drops. Knowing your own boundaries is equally important. Avoid participating in sports when you are tired or in pain, and seek immediate medical attention when you experience hypothermia or frostbite. Secondly, keep in shape, condition your muscles and warm up thoroughly before participating in winter sports. Cold joints, tendons and ligaments are very prone to injuries. Thirdly, wear properly and check your equipment. It is recommended to at least wear a breathable base layer, a middle layer for insulation and a water- and wind-resistant outer layer for warmth and protection. Wear proper footwear and protective equipment for ample support. Next is on the list is to drink up. Make sure to drink plenty of fluids before, during and after winter activities, since breathing in cold air can make you dehydrated. Lastly, learning how to fall (rather than avoiding falls) will help prevent injuries! If you try too hard to stay upright on your ski, the knees bear the brunt of the body’s weight, gravity and speed which can cause severe injuries to the soft tissues.
Winter can be a lot of fun and the last thing you want is a mishap to ruin it. Stay safe and healthy, we will see you on the slope!