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Injuries Health Guide Altitude Asthma Cold Diabetes Epilepsy First Aid Injuries Pregnancy Ultraviolet General Most accidents on skiing holidays occur while actually on the slopes, although the number of non-skiing injuries is rising. Common causes include falls on icy roads, tobogganing and ice skating accidents, and even collisions with airport luggage trolleys. The nature of potential injuries varies enormously. Fifty per cent are minor, such as muscular strains and bruises; the remainder include torn knee ligaments, leg fractures, dislocated thumbs and shoulders, and wrist injuries.   Treatment Of Minor Injuries The treatment of most minor injuries (muscle strains and bruises, joint strains, minor ligament strains) involves four stages: rest, ice, compression and elevation (RICE). The affected limb should be fully rested for 24 hours. Apply ice to the injury within 30 minutes to minimise swelling, keeping it in place until the skin of the affected part turns pink. Compression with a tight (elasticated) bandage, and elevation of the affected limb for from 2-24 hours will also help to avoid swelling. This treatment will reduce inflammation and should allow you to resume skiing as soon as possible. Start gently and make sure that you adequately support the injury. If pain or swelling persist, consult a local doctor, who will probably suggest a common anti-inflammatory. Particular care must be taken over knees; if rapid swelling occurs after even a trivial injury, you may have damaged a ligament and need urgent medical attention. Once a knee has been damaged it tends to be less stable, and many skiers subsequently find a knee brace helpful. These range from simple neoprene bandages to major works of engineering with titanium struts and hinges. If you are worried, or have had a serious joint injury, speak to your doctor.     Take a break, skiing when tired can increases the risk of injuries.   Injury Prevention The following precautions will help you to avoid injury on your holiday Get fit before you leave. Warm up before setting off each day. Check your equipment, especially boots and bindings, regularly. Follow the FIS safety code. Keep an eye on other skiers. Stop when tired. Adjust your skiing to terrain and weather. Take care on the last run home. Everyone is as tired as you. Make sure your après ski footwear is non-slip.   Health Guide     Altitude   Asthma   Cold   Diabetes   Epilepsy     First Aid   Injuries   Pregnancy   Ultraviolet

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