After completing his residency in Temple, Texas at Baylor Scott and White, Dr. Brett Robin completed his Orthopedic Surgery Sports Fellowship at the renowned Taos Orthopedic Institute (TOI). TOI is part of the US Ski and Snowboard teams. During his fellowship, Dr. Robin covered ski and mountain injuries from Angel Fire, Red River and Taos Ski Valley in New Mexico.
Four keys to preventing skiing injuries from an orthopedic surgeon
- Fitness: Skiing can be a grueling sport, the level of which can be exacerbated by environmental conditions. Altitude can cause dehydration and also decreases your blood’s oxygen carrying capacity. Begin training at least six to eight weeks before your trip. Focus on your core, glutes, quads, and hamstrings. Day one in the mountains should be spent more acclimating to the altitude. High altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE) is a serious condition that can occur if you are not acclimated. Seek medical attention immediately if you have shortness of breath or chest pain.
- Equipment: Make sure you have multiple layers for different conditions — helmet, goggles, gloves, and waterproof jackets can all help prevent hypothermia. Sunscreen is mandatory for sunny days (elevation amplifies the UV rays). Check with a professional to make sure your boots and bindings fit correctly and that your skis are the proper length for your ability.
- Know your limits: Get a good warm-up. Start out slow on greens, even if you are an experienced skier. Pair up with skiers who are your level. Take breaks and hydrate throughout the day. Know when you are mentally and physically fatigued. The majority of injuries occur toward the end of the day when fatigue sets in.
- Know your surroundings: Unfortunately, many skiing injuries occur in collisions with other skiers. Practice defensive skiing. Give novice skiers more room to make unexpected turns or falls. Low-light goggle lenses can also help you navigate the snow when patches of ice are present.