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Skiing & Knee Problems

Jun 14, 2011 | By Rachel Nall
Skiing & Knee Problems
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Almost 50 percent of skiing injuries are related in some way to the knees, which are in use constantly when you are navigating slopes, making quick stops and absorbing the shock of jumping over hills. If you have knee pain following a ski session, you might heal in a day -- or you may have experienced a more severe knee injury. Consult your physician or a sports injury specialist as soon as possible after you are injured.

Common Skiing Injuries

Skiing-related knee problems include tears of the anterior cruciate ligament, the deep ligament in the knee, or the medial collateral ligament, which runs through the middle of the knee. Another common injury is a tear of the meniscus, which is the portion of cartilage that rests on the inner and outer portion of the shin; it is subject to this type of injury due to sharp turns or changes in weight distribution when you are skiing. Each of these injuries can be severe enough to warrant surgery.

Indicators

Some knee soreness may be expected if you have not skied in a while, and the muscles around your knee are overworked after a long day on the slopes. Other symptoms are warning signals; for example, a popping sound followed by knee pain can indicate a meniscus injury. An inability to put weight on the leg or a pain that worsens with time can indicate a more serious condition. Extreme knee swelling or pain also can signal the need to seek medical attention.

Prevention

You will be better equipped you to handle the slopes if you engage in strengthening exercises to stabilize the muscles around your knee joints. Such exercises include the wall sit, in which you rest your back against the wall and lower your buttocks toward the ground, with your thighs parallel to the ground. Hold this position for 30 seconds, then return to your starting position. Jumping back and forth over a towel, with your feet together, can help you to simulate the motions you will perform on the slopes.

Considerations

As you age, the protective cartilage that helps your knees absorb shock can wear down. Without physical conditioning, you may not be able to ski at the same level you once did. If you are an avid but aging skier, participate in year-round conditioning and stretching exercises to maintain joint health. Alternate skiing activities with those that place less strain on the knees, such as swimming and bicycle riding, to help you maintain your cardiovascular and muscular health.

References

Article reviewed by Joseph Coda Last updated on: Jun 14, 2011

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