While many Connecticut residents enjoy winter sports, they may not always consider the risks these sports present. It is not uncommon for injuries to occur, and it is good to be aware of the dangers of some winter sports, as well as how to prevent injuries.
Injuries from winter sports are more common than people may think. The Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion says that sports such as skiing and snowboarding can be particularly dangerous, as people typically move at high speeds and are not always in contact with the ground. Head and neck trauma are the most common injuries incurred in extreme winter sports. The most recent numbers indicate that skiing results in 25 percent of concussions, while 30 percent can be attributed to snowboarding.
Because of the prevalence of concussions and other brain injuries, it is recommended that people take precautions when participating in winter sports. According to Brainline.org, one thing that can help prevent further injuries is knowledge of concussion symptoms. Some people may think that if they feel fine after a fall, they are unharmed. However, someone may not show symptoms of a concussion immediately. Confusion, weakness and lack of coordination are signs that someone may have a concussion, and medical professionals should generally be consulted to ensure that there are no further serious injuries.
Injuries can also be prevented by wearing a helmet. Because they can be damaged in falls, it is important to replace helmets if they show signs of excessive wear. It is also a good idea to be alert while enjoying winter sports. Skiers may want to make sure they are not too close to trees, and unseen obstacles can usually be avoided by staying in the middle of a trail. People may also want to look over a hill or trail beforehand so they know what to expect.
