Winter Sports Safety 101: Understanding the Impact of Concussions and How to Stay Protected

By Tracie Bearden, MS, CCC-SLP, CBIST

Did you know that traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) occur in up to 47 percent of skiing or snowboarding injuries and are the leading cause of death in these sports? With winter just around the corner, thousands of people will be planning to hit the slopes for some outdoor fun. If you’re one of those people, make sure you’re taking the proper steps to protect yourself from brain injuries such as concussions.

Knowing the signs and symptoms of a concussion – one of the most common skiing injuries – is crucial for both beginner and experienced skiers. Taking proactive measures to prevent concussions decreases the risk of severe TBI on the slopes.

What is a concussion?

A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to the head, or by a hit to the body that causes the head and brain to move rapidly back and forth.

Concussions vary in severity. Some individuals experience mild symptoms that resolve quickly. Others may face more significant challenges and longer recovery periods. It’s important to know that even a minor concussion should not be dismissed. All concussions can have serious implications for a person’s general health and well-being and can interfere with daily activities. This can impact an individual’s ability to return to work or participate in regular physical activities.

Concussions and snow sports

Concussions are one of the most common injuries that skiers face. Skiing and snowboarding come with high speeds and unpredictable terrain, increasing the risk of falls and collisions.

To prevent concussions, it’s essential to understand the common causes when skiing. Falls are the leading cause of concussions among skiers. Losing balance, misjudging a turn, or encountering unexpected obstacles can all lead to falls for skiers of any skill level. Collisions with other skiers or stationary objects, such as trees or rocks, are also common causes of concussions. Skiing in crowded areas or at high speeds increases the risk of such accidents.

Signs and symptoms of a concussion

Identifying concussion signs and symptoms is crucial for getting the right medical help and care on time. Symptoms can vary, but there are some common indicators to watch out for, including:

• Headaches
• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Confusion
• Difficulty concentrating or remembering
• Slowed thinking
• Word finding difficulties
• Irritability
• Mood swings

How to prevent concussions while skiing

Prevention is key when it comes to skiing-related concussions. Adopting proper skiing techniques and following safety guidelines can reduce the risk of sustaining a concussion on the slopes.

Maintaining control and skiing within your abilities is another aspect of preventing concussions. Ski resorts offer ski lessons led by qualified instructors to help you master your technique. It’s important to ski at a speed that is comfortable for you and to be aware of your surroundings.

Wearing appropriate protective gear, such as a helmet specifically designed for skiing, is critical. It is important to know that there is no concussion-proof helmet. However, a ski helmet can help protect the wearer from a serious brain injury.

A well-fitted helmet can absorb and distribute the impact force, significantly reducing the risk of a head injury. Let’s look at some more gear that can help prevent concussions on the slopes – some of these things might surprise you.

Preventing Concussions: Safety Gear for Snow Sports

When it comes to protecting yourself from concussions while skiing, the right gear makes a difference. In addition to ski helmets, goggles, wrist guards, and proper ski boots are essential parts of skiing safety gear that can provide added protection against concussions.

1. Ski Helmet: A high-quality ski helmet that meets safety standards is essential. Ensure it fits snugly and covers the entire head, including the back and sides. Replace your helmet if it’s been damaged or involved in a significant impact. A ski helmet should also be replaced if there are broken chin straps or missing foam or padding inside the helmet, or in the case of youth skiers, if a child has grown since the last time he or she went skiing.
2. Goggles: Proper eye protection is crucial for both visibility and protection. Choose goggles with impact-resistant lenses and a snug fit to prevent debris or snow from getting in your eyes during a fall or collision.
3. Wrist Guards: While primarily designed to protect against wrist injuries, wrist guards can also help prevent concussions. They provide additional support and stability, reducing the risk of a fall that could lead to a head injury.

What to do if a suspected concussion occurs while skiing

Despite preventative measures, accidents can still happen. If you think you or someone else has a concussion from skiing, act quickly. Here are the steps to follow:

1. Stop Skiing: If you experience a collision, fall, or any other form of impact, stop skiing right away. Continuing to ski with a concussion can worsen the injury, put you at risk for second impact syndrome, and could lead to severe complications.
2. Seek Medical Attention: Contact ski patrol or the nearest medical facility for assistance. A healthcare professional will be able to evaluate the severity of the concussion and provide appropriate guidance for further treatment or monitoring.
3. Rest and Recover: Following medical advice, allow yourself ample time to rest and recover. Physical and cognitive rest are essential for the healing process. Avoid activities that could potentially worsen the concussion, such as physical exertion, screen time, and mentally demanding tasks.

Conclusion: Enjoying skiing while staying safe

To minimize the risk of a concussion while skiing, wear proper gear, stay within your skill level, and be alert to your surroundings. If an accident does happen, seek immediate medical attention and follow the recommended medical advice. Stay safe and enjoy your exhilarating skiing journey!

For more information about concussion prevention, visit concussionawarenessnow.org and sign up to become a Concussion Awareness Now Champion.

Tracie Bearden is a speech language pathologist and Certified Brain Injury Specialist-Trainer in Denver, Colorado.