As Dr. William Sterett, a board-certified orthopedic surgeon and sports medicine specialist at Vail-Summit Orthopaedics & Neurosurgery in the mountain town of Vail, Colorado, I’ve worked with countless athletes who faced the heartbreak of a season-ending injury. For many, the physical pain is only part of the challenge. The bigger hurdle can be dealing with the disappointment of missed practices, games, and time with teammates.

As Dr. William Sterett, a board-certified orthopedic surgeon and sports medicine specialist at Vail-Summit Orthopaedics & Neurosurgery in the active mountain town of Vail, Colorado, I often see young athletes who push themselves to the limit. Playing multiple sports is a great way to build diverse skills and keep kids engaged, but without the right balance, it can also lead to overuse injuries.

For those who live in the mountains, or travel here every winter, skiing and snowboarding aren’t just hobbies, they’re a way of life. But hitting the slopes without preparation can set you up for injury, especially when it comes to your knees and shoulders.

As Dr. William Sterett, board-certified orthopedic surgeon and sports medicine specialist at Vail-Summit Orthopaedics & Neurosurgery, explains:

“Most of the injuries I see early in the season are preventable. A little work before the lifts start spinning can save you months of recovery later.”

When you’re facing an orthopedic surgery, whether it’s for your knee, shoulder, or another joint, it’s natural to feel both hopeful and a little overwhelmed. Knowing the right questions to ask your surgeon can help you feel informed, confident, and prepared for the road ahead.

As Dr. William Sterett, a board-certified orthopedic surgeon and sports medicine specialist at Vail-Summit Orthopaedics & Neurosurgery, explains, “Patients do better when they’re active participants in their care. Asking thoughtful questions isn’t just encouraged, it’s essential.”

As Dr. William Sterett, a board-certified orthopedic surgeon and sports medicine specialist at Vail-Summit Orthopaedics & Neurosurgery in the active mountain town of Vail, Colorado, I’m often asked which sports pose the highest risk for injury. You might think of extreme sports or high-speed activities first—but you may be surprised by what consistently shows up at the top of the list.

As the winter sports season approaches, ensuring the safety of our young athletes becomes a top priority. Dr. Bill Sterett, a board-certified orthopedic surgeon and renowned sports medicine specialist, shares valuable insights on preventing ACL injuries in youth winter athletes.

Have a rotator cuff tear, shoulder impingement, or shoulder dislocation? Consulting a sports medicine specialist for the most common shoulder injuries is key.