Quick Steps for Ski Mishaps

Skiing is fast becoming a de rigueur holiday activity for us tropics dwellers. But injuries are a quick way to ruin après-ski vibes. In this second of two articles, orthopaedic surgeon and ski-tragic DR DERRICK OH gives advice on what to do if you get injured skiing.

- GEORGINA HOCKLEY

What are the most common ski injuries?

While falls and collisions may cause fractures and abrasions, like they would with any less swanky activity, the commonest ski-specific malady would be a knee injury. Although a fracture sounds bad, it's usually much worse to suffer a soft tissue injury. A meniscus or ligament tear has less chance to heal completely compared to a fracture and may require surgical intervention.

In the knee, we most often see medial collateral ligament and anterior cruciate ligament sprains or tears. Medial collateral ligament injuries will result in pain on the inner side of your knee. There may even be bruising but rarely any swelling as the medial collateral ligament is outside the joint.

Anterior cruciate ligament tears will usually be caused by twisting injuries, especially if the ski does not disengage from the boot. These injuries are usually associated with early knee swelling (that is, swelling that comes on in less than six hours). There may even be a “pop” sound when it happens. Perversely, the pain settles quickly but instability or a feeling of weakness especially with pivoting actions are characteristic. Resist the urge to try out your knee just because it doesn't hurt anymore.