Page 70 - Phonebox Magazine February 2014

Physiotherapy for Ski-ing Injuries
Hello, I am Eileen Lewis, I have a Bsc in Physiotherapy and I am also a qualified Acupuncturist, with over 20 years experience. As it’s February, and the ski-ing season is well underway I thought it may be of interest to discuss common injuries sustained on the slopes that end up requiring Physiotherapy!
Common injuries are: whiplash, shoulder pain (joint strain or muscular damage or possible dislocation), wrist and in particular thumb pain (“Skiers Thumb”: sprain of Ulnar Collateral Ligament), knee pain (particularly Medial Collateral and Anterior Cruciate Ligament and the cartilage inside the joint) and
also, if more serious, possible fractures.
Good preparation before embarking on a ski-ing holiday will reduce the chance of an injury. This ought to include strengthening all of the muscles in the legs in particular the buttock
(gluteals), thigh (quadriceps, hamstrings,
abductors and adductors) and calf
(gastrocnemius and soleus). Good core muscles and balance and co-ordination also make for an injury-free time. After a days ski-ing it is a good idea to stretch all these muscle groups to maintain good flexibility and reduce post- exercise soreness ready for Apres Ski fun!
So if you are going on a ski-ing holiday do your strengthening exercises in the preceding weeks to get yourself in the best possible shape, use proper equipment, ensure you have a good and safe technique and stretch well afterwards, allowing you to have a wonderful time and make the most of your holiday. Any injuries sustained remember RICE (Rest, Ice, Compression and Elevation) to facilitate a quicker recovery.
If you are unfortunate enough to return home with an injury give me a call on 01234 881400 and I will be happy to help. Also you may want to look at my website www.bedfordphysio.co.uk
B.Sc MCSP AACP
www.bedfordphysio.co.uk
01234 881400
70 Phonebox Magazine