5 Winter Sports Injuries You Should Watch Out For
Winter means that many of us are hitting the slopes, the rink, or the trail for some outdoor activity, and that’s a good thing! That said, cold-weather athletics bring their own set of risks to your feet and ankles, and in this blog post, the team at Advanced Feet & Ankle Care is going to help you learn which ones to watch for.
The Cold, Hard Facts
It's not just the ice and snow that pose a threat. The cold itself can increase your risk of injury, leading to…
Reduced Blood Flow: Cold temperatures constrict blood vessels, reducing blood flow to the extremities and making them more susceptible to injury.
Stiff Muscles and Joints: Cold muscles and joints are less flexible, increasing the risk of strains, sprains, and tears.
Numbness: Cold-induced numbness can mask pain, delaying the recognition of an injury.
Frostbite and Raynauds: Prolonged exposure to the cold, especially when paired with conditions of reduced blood flow, can cause the skin to change colors, sometimes resulting in temporary discomfort or resulting in serious injury.
Common Injuries and the Sports That Cause Them
There’s certainly some overlap in the following list, but it serves as a helpful breakdown of the injuries common to some of the more popular winter pastimes.
1. Skiing:
"Skier's Toe": Repeated impact of toes against the front of the boot, leading to bruising and black toenails.
2. Snowboarding:
"Snowboarder's Ankle": A specific type of fracture of the talus bone, often caused by landing hard on a jump.
3. Ice Skating:
Corns, Blisters, and Skin Issues: Poorly fitting skates can cause friction and blisters.
4. Snowshoeing and Hiking:
Stress fractures: The repetitive impact of hiking, especially on hard, icy ground, can lead to stress fractures.
5. Cross-Country Skiing:
Achilles Tendonitis: The repetitive motion of cross-country skiing can strain the Achilles tendon.
If you do happen to sustain an injury, try not to stress. Many of the issues listed above can be effectively managed with non-invasive treatments, such as ESWT Shockwave Therapy. And don’t let these lists scare you away from a great experience outside, either! Just understand the risks, take preventative measures, and seek prompt medical attention when anything goes amiss.
Dr. Jason Grossman, Dr. Yaakov Tropper, and Dr. Paul A. Osemene are ready to help at our comfortable, convenient Advanced Feet and Ankle Care offices in Old Bridge, Sayreville, and Freehold. Call (732) 679-4330 to schedule your appointment, or contact us online today!