Dr. Garcia’s recent post for Hi Def on snow sport injuries

This video features orthopedic sports surgeon Dr. Grant H. Garcia from the Orthopedic Specialists of Seattle discussing winter sports injuries and prevention strategies in a blog post collaboration with High Def Physical Therapy.

Here is a summary of the main topics discussed:

• Skiing Injuries & Prevention: Dr. Garcia notes that ACL tears, meniscus injuries, and MCL sprains are very common during ski season. Because many people only ski a few times a year, their quads and hamstrings are often not strong enough to handle the sudden physical demand, placing them at peak risk for injury during the first few days of a trip. He strongly advocates for "prehab" (pre-season physical conditioning) to build lower-body strength and recommends structural knee bracing for anyone hitting the slopes with a history of previous ACL reconstruction.
• Snowboarding Dynamics: While many assume ACL injuries don't happen in snowboarding, they account for about 10% of the snowboarding injuries seen in his office-frequently occurring while getting off chairlifts or riding with one boot unstrapped. However, upper body trauma (wrist fractures and shoulder injuries) remains the most prevalent among snowboarders.
• General Safety & Technique: To lower overall risk, Dr. Garcia urges winter athletes to stay within their skill limitations (e.g., sticking to blue runs if that matches their comfort level), wear helmets to protect against severe head injuries, and invest in professional lessons to refresh proper technique if they haven't been on the snow in a while.
• Other Winter Activities:
  • Cross-Country & Skate Skiing: Highlighted as excellent cardiovascular alternatives with a significantly lower impact on the knees compared to traditional downhill skiing.
  • Ice Hockey: Commonly associated with skate-related lacerations, head injuries, and severe hamstring strains.
  • Snowmobiling & Tubing: Requires strict machine control and limb awareness to prevent severe accidental impacts with trees or catching a leg in the snow.
• When to Seek Care: If an injury does occur, Dr. Garcia recommends starting with a skilled physical therapist for initial diagnostic screening. If structural damage is suspected, an orthopedic evaluation should follow to determine if operative or non-operative care is necessary.