Few things in life can be as divisive as winter—you either love it or you hate it. Those who fall in the “love it” camp may have an assortment of reasons for feeling that way, but one of the main ones is the ability to hit the slopes. The caring staff at Foot Specialists of Long Island want those of you who enjoy skiing to be safe out there! There are a variety of ski injuries that you could possibly sustain, so we are here to offer tips for preventing them:
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Before your big skiing trip, spend some time in the gym. Hitting the slopes is taxing on your hamstrings and quads, so leg workouts are recommended. Strengthening your core muscles will help you stay steady. Also, cardio training is beneficial for acclimating to mountain altitudes.
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Only wear footwear that is intended for skiing. Stick to ski boots that fit properly. This means that you can wiggle your toes, but the heel, instep, and ball of your foot should be secure.
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A major cause of injuries on the slopes comes from improper technique, so take a lesson if you are new to skiing. Even little things can make a big difference. Leaning back in your boot, instead of balancing over your whole foot, can lead to injury. A trained instructor will make sure you have the correct technique to keep you safe.
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If you are on the slopes and feel yourself falling, just go with it. Ligaments can tear when skiers try to fight it to stay upright. The strain on the soft tissue is simply not worth risking it.
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The most common of all the ski injuries are knee sprains. These happen when too much strain is placed upon a knee or it bends in the opposite direction than intended. The use of a knee brace can help prevent this from happening.
Our patients are the best, but we hope that we don’t have to see you this winter due to ski injuries that could have been avoided. When they do happen, though, we are here for you! Remember, when you need expert treatment or winter foot care, make an appointment with our Massapequa, NY, office and we will get you back on your feet in no time. Call our office at (516) 804-9038 or request an appointment online today!
Photo Credit: AL71 via RGBStock.com
