February is prime time for skiing and snowboarding, especially with winter break drawing families and outdoor enthusiasts to the slopes. While these sports offer fresh air, exercise, and plenty of fun, they also come with an increased risk of injury—particularly when conditions are unpredictable.
According to Dr. Brett Owens, Chief of the Sports Medicine Center at University Orthopedics, preparation is key.
“You can’t control everything, especially the conditions,” says Dr. Owens. “But you want to be as prepared as you can. You don’t just clip in and go.”
Common Ski & Snowboard Injuries
Dr. Owens notes that winter sports injuries are seen in both adults and children, though the type of injury often depends on the activity.
Skiers most commonly experience knee injuries, particularly ACL tears.
Snowboarders, on the other hand, are more prone to upper-extremity injuries, including shoulder dislocations and wrist fractures.
Concussions can occur in both sports, highlighting the importance of proper head protection.
Know When to Call It a Day
One of the most common scenarios Dr. Owens sees involves fatigue—especially during the “last run of the day.”
“If you’re feeling tired and the conditions are getting a little sloppy, it might be time to end the day early,” he explains.
Fatigue can slow reaction time and increase the likelihood of falls, whether you’re skiing, snowboarding, or even sledding.
Safety Tips to Reduce Injury Risk
While not all injuries are preventable, Dr. Owens recommends a few simple steps to help reduce risk:
Be aware of weather and slope conditions
Listen to your body and rest when you feel fatigued
Plan ahead rather than rushing through runs
Always wear proper gear, including a helmet, to protect against concussions and other head injuries
When Injuries Happen
Even with precautions, injuries can still occur. If pain, swelling, or instability develops after a fall or accident, it’s important to seek medical evaluation promptly.
University Orthopedics is here to help keep you moving safely—on and off the slopes—all winter long.
About Dr. Owens
Brett D. Owens, MD is a fellowship-trained, board-certified orthopedic sports medicine surgeon, specializing in arthroscopic repair of sports-related injuries as well as complex knee and shoulder reconstructions.
Dr. Owens serves as Director of the Rhode Island Cartilage Repair Center, the Director of Sports Medicine at Miriam Hospital, and Director of Sports Medicine Research at Brown. He is currently Team Physician for Brown University and the Providence Bruins. He is a Professor of Orthopaedic Surgery at Brown University, Alpert School of Medicine. He also serves as Associate Editor for the American Journal of Sports Medicine.