3 Ways to Prevent Common Winter Sports Injuries

The weather’s getting colder here in Northern Utah. That might be good or bad news, depending on your chosen activity. 

If you’re a runner, you might not love what the potential for ice does to your favorite routes. But if you’re a skier, you probably welcome the dropping temperatures.

Whatever your stance on the chillier days, one thing is true: winter brings a heightened risk for sports injuries. Data from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) shows that nearly 125,000 people get taken to the ER for winter activity-related injuries every year. 

Because we specialize in sports injuries and we’re familiar with Utah’s cold months, our team at Rogers Foot & Ankle Institute can help you avoid wintertime sports injuries. If one does occur, we’ll be here to treat it at our offices in American Fork or Saratoga Springs, Utah. 

Choose the right gear

The aforementioned data from the CPSC revealed that 36% of the recorded wintertime injuries were to the wrist, hand, or finger. A fair share of those were likely folks who slipped and tried to catch themselves. 

That underscores the importance of good gear for your feet. If you walk or run during the winter, make sure you have shoes with proper tread.

If you ski or snowboard, ensure your boots fit correctly. You want them snug. Slipping around inside of them increases your risk for a fall and a resulting hand or wrist injury as you try to catch yourself on the slope. 

Be mindful of your limit

If you get tired while doing your activity of choice, you’re more likely to get hurt. Fatigue can impact your decision-making. You might not notice an upcoming obstacle until it’s too late. 

Being worn out can also impact your form, putting strain on your body and increasing your risk of an overuse injury. 

Pay careful attention to how you feel during your winter activity. Don’t push past your exhaustion. 

Winter weather can also make you feel less thirsty, so hydration is extra important during this time of year. Take breaks to drink up and check in with how you’re feeling.

Be willing to pivot

Winter weather brings some unpredictability our way. Make adjustments as needed to keep yourself safe.

If you had planned to go cycling or for a run but temperatures could make for icy roadways, consider switching to a stationary bike or treadmill. 

If you were thinking about snowboarding but a whiteout is hampering visibility, consider going another day — or at least staying off runs with lots of trees. 

We hope these tips help you avoid any sports injuries this winter. If you do experience a foot or ankle injury, we’re here. Contact us by calling (801) 756-4200 if you want a personalized recovery plan for your injury.