Skiing and snowboarding in Australia’s stunning alpine regions offer exhilarating experiences, but they also come with the risk of injury. For those lucky enough to be hitting the slopes, understanding the common types of injuries that can occur is the first step towards prevention and knowing what to expect should the unexpected happen. Physios are often the first point of contact for managing these musculoskeletal issues, helping individuals recover and safely return to enjoying the snow or post-holiday life.
Skiing & Snowboarding Injuries
The most common skiing and snowboarding injuries that physiotherapists treat include:
- Knee injuries
- Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) tears – are common due to twisting and pivoting movements
- Medial Collateral Ligament (MCL) sprains/tears – often from direct blows to the outside of the knee, or when skis move in opposite directions
- Meniscus tears – due to the forceful twisting of the knee
- Shoulder injuries
- Dislocations – are frequently caused by falling onto an outstretched arm
- Rotator cuff injuries – strains or tears from falls
- Wrist and hand injuries
- Skier’s thumb – tear of the ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) of the thumb, often from falls with a ski pole in hand
- Wrist fractures – from falling onto an outstretched hand
- Back pain: Due to posture, improper technique, or falls
Physiotherapists play a crucial role in the rehabilitation of skiing and snowboarding injuries. Our physios focus on reducing pain and swelling, restoring range of motion, strengthening the affected areas and surrounding muscles, and improving balance and proprioception to facilitate a safe return to skiing/snowboarding. We can also provide guidance on injury prevention or in the worst cases, provide guided rehabilitation programs post-surgery.
Need Help?
Whether you want a pre-ski trip check-up or post-holiday recovery, we are here to help you get the most out of your holiday or help expedite your recovery. Contact our team to get professional help.