As we head into winter sports season, injuries like sprains, fractures and even frostbite often begin to increase. Whether you’re a skier, snowboarder or die-hard outdoor jogger, keep these quick tips in mind to help prevent winter sports injuries this season.
Wear Properly-Fitting Equipment
No matter the sport, properly-fitting equipment and shoes are a must for any physical activity. Fit becomes even more important with winter sports, however, as you’ll have to pay attention to both the length and the width when fitting ski boots. You want to ensure your feet have enough room, yet not so much room that you risk knee, foot or ankle injuries.
Don’t Skip Your Warm-Up
While you might not necessarily think of warming up before hitting the slopes, properly stretching your muscles before any physical activity is a must to help prevent injury.
Adjust Activity According to the Weather
If you enjoy a good outdoor walk or jog even in the cooler winter months, pay attention to the weather forecast before heading out. You may want to adjust your plans on days where freezing rain or ice are expected to avoid falls. And if it’s going to be very cold, add extra layers — especially socks, gloves and hats or ear protectors — to avoid frostbite.
Keep Your Feet Dry
When you come in from the cold, immediately change out of wet clothes and dry your feet. This will help to prevent fungal infections, which thrive in moist environments like sweaty ski boots.
If you do notice any signs of foot or ankle injuries, it’s best to get them looked at sooner than later to rule out any serious breaks or fractures. Please don’t hesitate to call our Gaithersburg office at 301-948-2995 or contact us online to consult one of our foot specialists.
