Snowboarding remains a prominent activity in the extreme sports community. Professional snowboarders execute dangerous aerial tricks off half-pipe ramps. According to the American Academy of Family Physicians, the back of the head remains a common point of impact during snowboarding falls. Avoid serious head injuries by mastering the basic turns and maneuvers on a beginner snowboarding slope.
Injury Rates and Types
Snowboarders have a greater likelihood of being injured than alpine skiers. Conventional snow skis feature a release mechanism that allows your feet to detach from the skis in the event of a fall. During a snowboarding fall, your feet will remain fastened to the fiberglass board. According to SkiInjury.com, more than 15 percent of snowboarding injuries result in a concussion while almost 12 percent result in some type of laceration. A common injury involves the snowboard making contact with the back of your head during a forward fall.
Freestyle
Freestyle snowboarders possibly have the greatest likelihood of acquiring some form of head injury. As opposed to simply carving down the mountain slope, freestyle riders perform high speed flips and spins. A common form of freestyle riding takes place in a designated course known as the terrain parks. Terrain parks feature sloping rails and ledges. Sliding out during a rail grinding technique may result in a painful head injury. According to the National Ski Areas Association, 45 snowboarders and skiers were fatally injured in the year 2004.
Rider Collisions
Many beginner snowboarders do not possess the necessary skills to navigate down the mountain slope. Advanced snowboarders may not be aware of novice riders while executing high-speed maneuvers. Collisions with your fellow riders can result in serious head trauma. The sharp edges of the snowboard can easily slice through the sensitive skin that covers your skull. When riding in the terrain park, always wait for other riders to get clear of the obstacle before dropping in.
Prevention
Snowboarders often do not use safety gear. However, wearing a protective helmet remains the easiest way to prevent snowboarding related head injuries. Snowboarding helmets commonly feature a hard plastic or carbon fiber construction. According to Transworld Snowboarding, snowboarding helmets often feature a series of adjustable safety straps. Perform a few simple tests to ensure your snowboarding helmet fits properly. Place your middle and forefinger above your eyebrow to ensure the helmet does not sit too low on your forehead.
