Ski Course
How to prevent injuries
Even when you become an advanced skier, there is a chance of getting yourself injured at the slopes. Nobody is assured 100% against getting injuries but it is better to prevent eventual troubles in advance by following certain guidelines before hitting the pistes.
First of all, you can decrease the risk of injuries if you are physically well-fit. This will help you sustain a good shape and not getting tired too fast. Take certain time to warm up with some exercises before setting off.
You should be aware about dressing in layers. Thus, you can adapt easily to the weather changes by taking off your sweater or turtle neck. Moreover, do not forget your gloves, as well as hat or headband these are important garments to keep the warmth of your body. Choose ski clothing that is water-proof and not loose in order to keep the wind out.
At the beginning of the ski season, check if your skis, poles and bindings are in fine condition. Check regularly the ski bindings if they are attached properly to skis; it is also good to go for a test in a ski shop. Before leaving home, make sure that you did not forget any of the ski gear elements, so prepare your ski bag the previous evening.
Once you start skiing, remember to keep an eye on the skiers around or those coming to you.
Do not wait to become exhausted but take a rest when you feel tired.
Sunny weather makes skiing more pleasant but can hide its risks. The higher the altitude is, the more dangerous the sun rays are, so put sun-protection lotion on your face and lip balsam on your lips. Stay all of the time with your goggles or sunglasses because of the snow reflection of the sun, which is strong even when cloudy.
Final but not least important, wearing a helmet will protect your head from injuries in case of a fall or collision.
Type of injuries and treatment
When on a ski vacation, the accidents on the slope terrain are most probable than incidents on the icy road to the slope. The highest risk is from minor injuries, then it comes the risk from bruises and muscular strains, and finally the risk from some severe ones as leg fractures, torn ligaments, etc.
If you get a minor injury (bruise, muscle strain, joint or ligament strain), you can make the following treatment: rest actively for 24 hours, put ice on it, compress it with bandage and elevate the affected limb. The ice should be kept on the injured part for about 30 minutes to reduce the swelling, the compression should be applied with a tight (for example elasticated) bandage, and then the elevation of the injured limb for several to 24 hours will help to avoid or minimize swelling.
When you perform these procedures, it will reduce inflammation, help you recover faster and return to the ski slopes as soon as possible. At the moment you feel you are ready to ski again, be careful all of the time with the injured limb and start sliding gently. In case you feel it hurts or the swelling is constant, do not hesitate and visit a doctor, who will most probably prescribe you some anti-inflammatory medicines.
Pay more attention if you affect your knees or joints and there is a rapid swelling after the injury. In this case you might have strained or torn a ligament and immediate visit to the doctor is a must. In any case a medical specialist has to take care of your knee, because this injury is very obstinate and can take you out from the pistes for a long time. Your knee will be unstable for a certain period and that is why helpful would be using a knee brace: neoprene bandages or more serious supporting items like titanium struts and hinges.