Everyone’s favorite skier, Lindsey Vonn, will not be among
the Sochi Olympic contenders. She had hoped to recover from a knee injury
suffered one year earlier for a 2014 run at the gold. But, after aggravating
the injury during a preliminary trial, she was required to hang up her skis for
the season.
While most of us will never ski to Vonn’s ability, injury on
the slopes is common for amateurs, professionals and everyone in between. A
knee injury is the most frequently suffered, especially of the anterior
cruciate ligament (ACL)—the same issue that kept Vonn sidelined.
How do you make sure you don’t end up in the ER during your
winter vacation?
Four
Safety Tips When Hitting the Slopes
Maintain
fitness and don’t overreach. Be sure you’re in
good physical condition when you set out on a ski outing. If you’re out of
shape, select ski runs carefully and gradually build your way up to more
challenging trails.
Warm
up. Research studies have shown that cold muscles are more
prone to injury. Warm up with jumping jacks, running or walking in place for 3
to 5 minutes. Take a couple of slow ski runs to complete your warm up.
Hydrate.
Even mild levels of dehydration can affect physical ability and endurance.
Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
Know
safety rules. Understand and abide by all rules of
the ski resort. And know the general safety rules, such as how to stop, merge,
and yield to other skiers.
Click here
for more tips from the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons.
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