The Comparison of Injury Pattern and Risk in First Time Skiers and Snowboarders

Shim, Dae Moo; Kim, Tae Kyun; Lee, Young; Lim, Chul Min

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to explore the risk and pattern of injury which can happen to first time skier and snowboarder. From December 2006 to March 2008, questionnaires were provided to 7,786 patients injured from skiing or snowboarding and hospitalized. First time and experienced groups were distinguished through questionnaire and accidental reports. The differences in incidence, cause of injury, affected body region, type of injury, and severity of injury were compared between the two groups. Falling or slip down was the most common cause of injury in first timers, while collision with person was most common in experienced. Injured sites were similar in both ski and snowboard with arm and wrist as the most frequent injured body region. Sprain and contusion were the most common injury type for both groups. However, the incidence of ligament injury was higher in the first time skiers and concussion and dislocation in the first time snowboarders compared to the experienced. In conclusion, beginners in skiing and snowboarding happened to show different cause and features of injury compared to the experienced. Therefore beginners need effective programs differed from the ones of experienced, such as mentioning risks of skiing and snowboarding and reserving a porting of slopes to the beginners. Moreover, It is necessary to develop and effectively use protective gear in order to secure elbow joint and wrist eminence.