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Common Skiing and Snowboarding Injuries and How Chiropractic Care & SoftWave Therapy Keep You on the Slopes!

Published January 4th, 2025 by Dr. Sam Camarata

Winter is here, and it’s time to hit the slopes! Whether you’re skiing or snowboarding, these adrenaline-pumping activities are fantastic ways to stay active and enjoy the season. But with the fun comes the risk of injury. At Camarata Chiropractic & Wellness, we’re here to help you prevent injuries and recover quickly so you can make the most of your time on the mountains. Our ski and snowboard patients are big fans of combining Chiropractic adjustments with our SoftWave Therapy to accelerate healing from aches, pains and injury and keep them going all season long!


Common Skiing and Snowboarding Injuries

While skiing and snowboarding can be exhilarating, they also put stress on your body. Here are some of the most common injuries associated with these winter sports:

1. Knee

The knees take a lot of strain during skiing, especially with twisting movements. Common injuries include ACL and MCL sprains, injury, and patellar tendonitis.

2. Wrist & Thumb

Snowboarders often experience wrist injuries when trying to break a fall. Improper landing techniques can lead to sprains or fractures. Skiers often experience “skier’s thumb” aka "gamekeeper's thumb" from falling on an outstretched thumb while gripping ski poles during a fall. This causes a sprain or tear in the ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) in the thumb.

3. Shoulder

Falling awkwardly or overextending during a turn can lead to rotator cuff and bicep strains, shoulder labrum injuries or shoulder subluxation and/or dislocation.

4. Spine

The repetitive twisting and bending motions of skiing and snowboarding can lead to lower back pain, disc pain and injury or muscle strains.

5. Head & Neck

Collisions or falls can result in concussions or other traumatic brain injuries, making helmets essential gear. Falling on your head could also result in whiplash type injury causing pain and damage in the cervical spine aka neck placing pressure on discs, joints, nerves, muscles, tendons and ligaments.


Prevent Injuries with These Tips

1. Stay Hydrated

Hydration is crucial for maintaining energy and preventing cramps. We recommend LMNT electrolytes to keep your body hydrated and balanced. Electrolytes help regulate muscle contractions and prevent fatigue on the slopes.

2. Warm Up and Stretch

Before hitting the slopes, take 5-10 minutes to warm up and stretch. Focus on:

  • Hamstring and quad stretches for lower body mobility.
  • Hip flexor stretches to prevent tightness.
  • Shoulder and wrist stretches to reduce strain during falls.
  • Dynamic movements like lunges or squats to activate key muscle groups.

3. Use Proper Gear

Ensure your boots, bindings, and board/skis are properly fitted and adjusted. Don’t forget your helmet—it’s essential for safety.

4. Know Your Limits

Ski and snowboard within your skill level. Trying to tackle a slope that’s too advanced increases your risk of injury.

5. Study the Resort Map

Familiarize yourself with the slopes, trails, and designated areas to avoid getting lost or venturing into dangerous zones.

6. Ski or Snowboard with a Friend

Having someone with you adds a layer of safety and accountability. Look out for one another and enjoy the day as a team.

7. Get Adjusted Before and After

Regular chiropractic care helps ensure your spine and joints are aligned, improving your flexibility, balance, and reaction times on the slopes. Post-ski adjustments can help reduce soreness and prevent injury.


How Chiropractic Care Supports Skiers and Snowboarders

Chiropractic care plays a crucial role in preventing and treating skiing and snowboarding injuries. At Camarata Chiropractic & Wellness, we help you stay in peak condition with:

  • Spinal Adjustments: Improve alignment and enhance your body’s ability to adapt to the physical demands of skiing and snowboarding.
  • Injury Recovery: Chiropractic care reduces inflammation, improves mobility, and speeds up recovery after falls or strains.
  • Balance and Flexibility: Proper alignment supports better balance and coordination, critical for navigating slopes effectively.

SoftWave Therapy for Faster Recovery

For skiers and snowboarders dealing with chronic pain or recovering from injuries, SoftWave Tissue Regeneration Therapy offers an advanced, non-invasive solution. Here’s how it helps:

  • Inflammation Control: SoftWave Therapy calms inflamed tissues, reducing pain and swelling in injured areas.
  • Stimulates Tissue Repair & Regeneration: By activating stem cells and growth factors, SoftWave Therapy accelerates the repair of ligaments, tendons, and muscles.
  • Relieves Pain Fast: The therapy provides immediate pain relief, helping you return to the slopes faster.

Whether it’s a knee strain, wrist sprain, back pain or sore muscles, SoftWave Therapy can make a significant difference in your recovery and performance.


Stay Healthy, Safe, and Active This Winter

Skiing and snowboarding are some of the most exciting winter activities, but preparation and proper care are essential to stay injury-free. By combining chiropractic care, SoftWave Therapy, and these injury prevention tips, you’ll feel your best and enjoy more time on the slopes.

Location: 3237 Union St, North Chili, NY 14514
Phone: 585-617-4145
Schedule Your Adjustment and SoftWave Therapy Session Below:

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