Skiing and snowboarding is a fun recreational activity during Michigan's cold winter months, but it's also important to remember safety!
Dr. Carl Wierks, Partner of West Michigan Orthopaedics , stopped by to discuss how skiers and snowboarders can reduce the risk of injury on the slopes. Dr. Wierks is a team physician for the U.S. Ski and Snowboard team, and will be covering the U.S. Snowboard Team at the World Cup event in Mammoth Lakes, California at the end of January.
Skier and snowboarders need to do the following to have a safe and fun time:
- Have optimal outerwear; dress in layers!
- Properly sized skis and snowboards: skis between the chin and your head, snowboards between your chin to nose.
- Avoid purchasing used helmets: make sure your helmet doesn't shake on your head.
- Have situational awareness: know your limits, understand where to stop if you need to stop mid-run.
