WINTER LIFESTYLE: WINTER SPORTS CAN LEAD TO INJURIES
FIND OUT HOW TO AVOID THEM
By Tim Bohlender, MD

The Colorado high country is known for snow, extreme winter sports and of course, high altitude. Most ski resorts in Colorado are located between 8,000 and 10,000 feet above sea level. The wintry cold weather and extreme snowfall make Colorado a sought-after destination for many tourists who are looking for prime skiing and snowboarding conditions. Along with extreme skiing and snowboarding come the many related injuries that we see at our clinic every day.

The three most common injuries seen during the winter months are to heads, wrists and knees. These types of injuries can result from skiing, snowboarding and snowmobiling accidents, as well as falls due to icy and snow-packed streets and walkways. Sometimes injuries occur when people are not fully prepared for the conditions.

ALTITUDE ILLNESS -
Sometimes being at a higher altitude can cause someone to suffer flu-like symptoms. Altitude illness occurs when someone from lower altitudes breathes air that is thinner and less oxygenated than at lower elevations. Altitude illness can cause headaches, nausea, vomiting and insomnia. More severe altitude illness can have symptoms similar to pneumonia, congestion and difficulty breathing. Symptoms usually occur within the first three days of arrival and usually
disappear by the fourth day.

To avoid altitude illness:
• If possible, spend one to two extra days and nights at lower altitudes before going to higher altitudes, so you can adjust gradually.
• Avoid alcohol, sleeping pills and narcotic pain medicine during your first few days in the mountains.
• Rest, and drink plenty of fluids.

Altitude and its effects can be life-threatening! If you have heart, lung or other medical problems, be cautious and seek medical advice.

FROSTBITE -
Another common injury during the winter is frostbite of the fingers, face and feet. Frostbite is freezing of the skin and underlying tissue. Re-warming of the skin is essential. There may be a loss of function or sensation in the frostbitten area. Signs of frostbite include skin turning shades of blue or white and blistering of the skin as it warms. If you get frostbitten, apply warm compresses to the affected area and take aspirin or ibuprofen for the pain. Call the doctor if your exposed skin is discolored or signs of infection develop.

Frostbite can be prevented by:
• Covering the exposed areas of skin and keeping them dry.
• Wearing insulated layers and a wind / water protective outer layer.
• Wearing hat, scarf, warm socks to cover hands, feet, nose and ears.
• Drinking fluids for rehydration.
• Avoiding alcohol, caffeine and cigarettes.

If you have been frostbitten before, do not expose those areas to cold as they are susceptible to reinjury.

HEAD INJURIES CAN BE PREVENTED -
Head and brain injuries can occur at any time of year, but they are common injuries during the winter season. Many brain injuries incurred during sports could be prevented by wearing a helmet that is properly fitted.

Here are a few tips to make sure your helmet fits correctly:
• Buy a helmet and make sure you wear it.
• Use foam pads inside to fit the helmet snugly so it doesn’t move on the head.
• Fit the helmet so the front is two finger widths above the eyebrows.
• Adjust the two side straps so they meet in a “V” under each ear.
• Adjust the chin strap snugly under the chin. Make it tight enough so the helmet pulls down when you open your mouth.
• Check often to make sure straps stay snug and the helmet stays level on the head.

Whether you are skiing, snowboarding, biking or rafting, always remember to wear a helmet. It could save your life!

OFF-SEASON ACTIVITIES TO STAY IN SHAPE -
As an additional method of prevention, I strongly encourage people to exercise during the summer months to increase their core strength. Activities like walking, running, swimming, weight lifting and toning help increase the strength of your back, stomach and torso muscles. Classes like yoga and Pilates are also very good for flexibility and toning. Take ski classes during the ski season for continued muscle toning and strengthening.

From the mountains to the plains, Colorado offers many opportunities for adventures that are hard to find anywhere else. By taking the necessary steps to ensure your overall health and safety, you are more likely to have the time of your life, wherever your adventure takes you.

Dr. Bohlender, a native of Colorado, received his medical training from the University of Colorado and did his residency training at St. Joseph Hospital in Denver. He began practicing medicine in Grand County in 1986 at Seven Mile Medical Clinic and has lived in Grand County for 17 years. He currently practices medicine at St. Anthony’s Granby Medical Center and continues to enjoy living in the county with his wife, Shirra, and infant son, Luke.



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