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Snowboarding Thrills, Chills and Risk
U.S. Ski and Snowboard Team Doctor on Prevention of Common Injuries
Dr. Plancher cautions all first-time snowboarders – whether they've never been on the slopes before or they are accomplished skiers – against taking that first trip down the half-pipe before preparing themselves for the ride. In that ongoing Scottish study, more than 23 percent of all snowboard-related injuries occurred on the participant's first day on a snowboard. "Preparation is key to injury prevention," Dr. Plancher says. "There are many key measures that snowboarders, new and experienced alike, can take now, in order to help prevent injuries, and to recognize and treat them if they do occur."
Dr. Plancher has the following safety suggestions:
- Wear protective gear: Dr. Plancher recommends wrist guards and a helmet for all snowboarders, and in particular for novices. He also suggests considering padded pants.
- Consult a professional: From choosing a snowboard and boots, to renting or purchasing, to taking a beginner's lesson on safe snowboarding, get advice and instruction from experts.
- Practice: No matter what your athletic skill level is, when learning a new sport like snowboarding, it's imperative that you start from the beginning and work your way to an expert level. "Injuries are more likely to happen when you're pushing your body too far past its capability limits," Dr. Plancher says.
- Know the signs: If you think you may have sustained an injury during a fall or jump, stop immediately and apply the RICE technique: Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation. If pain or swelling persist, have the area checked by an orthopedist as quickly as possible. "Often the effects of an injury are prolonged because treatment isn't sought as soon as it should be," Dr. Plancher says.