Snowboarding Injuries

Before you start snowboarding, there are some basic precautions you should take. These precautions include proper warm-up exercises and cool-down exercises as a best snowboarding protection, as well as being aware of terrain hazards. In addition, if you get injured, visiting an experienced surgeon is highly recommended. If your injury is more serious, further testing may be recommended, including X-rays, Cat scans, or magnetic resonance imaging.

Fractures

Among the most common snowboarding injuries are wrist fractures and clavicle fractures. These fractures occur when a snowboarder falls on his or her outstretched hand. Symptoms of a fractured scaphoid include limited thumb movement and bruising at the base of the thumb. The scaphoid is one of the smaller bones in the wrist. A fracture can be painful and difficult to heal.

Treatment for a fracture varies, depending on the size and displacement of the fracture. Minor fractures may require non-surgical treatment such as four to six weeks in a cast. However, large fractures will typically require surgical treatment. Surgery involves reducing the fracture fragment into its normal position and placing screws into the bone to hold it in place. Afterward, the patient will gradually be able to return to physical activity.

Sprains

Sprains are common snowboarding injuries, but there are several ways to prevent them. First, snowboarders should wear helmets. They should also wear stiff boots to reduce the risk of ankle sprains. And finally, they should stay hydrated and maintain proper fitness levels. A snowboarding injury can be devastating if not treated immediately.

The most common snowboarding injuries involve the wrist, fingers, and ankle. These injuries usually occur from abrupt stops or forward and backward falls, with outstretched arms and hyperextended wrists. They may also occur from stunting or performing aerial moves. Luckily, these injuries can be remedied with a warm-up and stretching routine. However, more serious cases require a visit to a doctor.

Ankle Fractures

Among the most common snowboarding injuries is ankle fracture, also known as snowboarder's ankle. This fracture occurs due to the snowboarding action, which places the foot across the shin, rolling the ankle inward and inversion. Despite the soft material of snowboard boots, snowboarders are still susceptible to this injury.

Treatment for an ankle fracture depends on the size of the fracture and the alignment of the bone. Small fractures usually heal without surgery and require about four to six weeks in a cast. However, large fractures may require surgery to realign the bones and place screws to hold the bone in place. Recovery from surgery includes a period of non-weight-bearing rest and gradual restoration of joint movement.

Spinal Injuries

The risk of spinal injuries is high among snowboarders. These injuries typically affect the thoracic and cervical spines. Snowboarders are more likely to sustain cervical or lumbar fractures than skiers. In some cases, the risk of SCI can be very low. Nevertheless, snowboarders should consult a doctor if they suffer from these types of injuries.

The incidence of spinal injuries during snowboarding is unknown, but recent changes in slope design and behaviours could contribute to the incidence of spinal injuries in snowboarders.

Chondramalacia Patellae (Housemaids Knee)

Chondromalacia patellae is a condition that affects the cartilage in the kneecap. This damage often results in moderate to severe pain in the knee. Physiotherapy can be effective in most cases.

A slight alignment problem causes the patella to rub against the lower femur. This can be due to a natural difference in how the knee has developed over time or a muscle imbalance. One side's quadriceps muscle may pull harder than the other, causing the patella to not glide smoothly over the lower femur. If this happens in combination with overuse in sports, it can lead to chondromalacia patellae.

Concussions

Concussions are often a result of snowboarding or skiing accidents. These injuries can lead to serious long-term damage to the brain, or even death. Symptoms of a concussion include headaches, neck pain, pressure on the head, blurred vision, and sensitivity to light. If you notice any of these symptoms, you should seek medical attention immediately. Read how to tell if injury is serious to stay safe.

Snowboarding injuries are more common than skiing, and they are more likely to involve the upper body. Because snowboarders do not use ski poles, they have less balance and can fall forward or backward. A concussion usually requires hospitalization and concussion rehabilitation to ensure a full recovery. In some cases, blood clots can form in the brain, resulting in severe brain injuries. After the concussion has been treated, the patient can gradually return to normal activities. It is important to avoid activities such as smartphones and loud music while recovering from a concussion.