Skiing means falling, and falling may mean serious injury.
According to sports medicine expert Joel Buchalter, M.D. with Somers Orthopaedic Surgery & Sports Medicine, a tumble in any activity involving the knees, skiing in particular, has the potential for some heavy duty damage.
The right kind of preparation for ski season, however, can reduce the risk.
Here are some tips to consider before you hit the slopes:
- Use the right equipment and ensure that it is in good shape - skis tuned and sharpened and bindings adjusted properly.
- Know your limits: know what tricks you’re not ready for and what hills are too challenging.
- Use preseason conditioning to build cardiovascular fitness, flexibility and strength.
- Stretch your hamstrings, hip flexors and quadriceps before skiing.
Here's to a safe season!