Eventually, every skier or snowboarder crashes. It might be on extreme terrain. It might be on a slow catwalk when you least expect it. You never know.
If you go down hard, you might be dazed, scared, embarrassed, and/or pumping with adrenaline. For this particular article, we’re going to assume that you can ski down to the base (another time, we’ll discuss situations where you are likely to request help from ski patrol or backcountry rescuers).
Here’s the problem: Park City has a culture of playing through injuries and “toughing it out.” Many locals can’t imagine a week or two without physical activity. Many visitors can’t imagine sitting out the rest of their ski vacation.
The decision to ski with an undiagnosed injury could turn a two-week rest into a six-month recovery. To prevent that from happening, follow these steps:
Step 1: Get examined
Just because you skied to the base, that doesn’t mean you should ski tomorrow or the day after. Visit your primary care physician, physical therapist, or NPI for an examination. Let your care provider know if new symptoms have emerged in the hours or days between the wreck and your evaluation. You might get clearance to ski. Or, you might be told to stay off the slopes and rehabilitate your injury.
Step 2: Do not program your own recovery
Most likely, you will push your body too soon or wait too long and stiffen up. Work with a physical therapist, mobility specialist, and/or strength coach on your recovery plan.
Step 3: Before you hit the slopes again, check the functionality of the injured body part
Can it support your full weight and some?
Can you move through a full range of motion pain free?
Is it weak or unstable?
Are you nervous to ski on it?
Again: Two weeks off the slopes is better than six months in recovery. If you have doubts about an injury, get in touch. We’d be happy to take a look.
