Why Are There More Knee Injuries in Female Skiers?
From Beginners to Pros, Knee Injuries Are Common in Skiers
You may have noticed that skiers suffer a higher rate of knee injuries. That’s why we are so busy here in the mountains of Vail and Summit County. Between the weekend warriors, the tourists from faraway lands, and the locals waking up early for first tracks, skiers flock to this area to enjoy the best of the best when it comes to terrain.
But you don’t have to be a beginner to injure your knees while skiing. In fact, it’s an injury that just doesn’t discriminate based on experience or even skill.
A good example of this is our top pros, many who have even suffered multiple injuries.
Just take a look at the numbers. We've recently witnessed some of our top skiers go down with knee injuries. In fact, here’s a little nugget for you. For our world-class skiers, knee injuries are almost expected.
Why is this? In the following video, Dr. Sterett explains one of the reasons, which equates to this: High Speeds + Planted Foot = Injury Potential
Being "hyperlax" Contributes to Knee Injuries in Skiing
Ok, so we've established that skiers tear the ACL at a high rate. And we mentioned that anybody can suffer the injury, from the most inexperienced beginner to the most seasoned pro.
Now let’s talk about another factor that you might not realize contributes to knee injury: being “loose-jointed.”
We call this hyperlaxity, and it is one of several factors that cause our female competitors to tear the ligament at an even higher rate.
If you follow Dr. Sterett, you've certainly seen him talk about the unique challenges facing female athletes in regards to knee injuries. Being “loose-jointed” is a major factor in this category.
In the following video, Dr. Sterett talks hyperlaxity, explaining how it contributes to knee injuries in our female athletes.
The Role of The Menstrual Cycle in Knee Injuries to Female skiers
Here's another factor that can contribute to injuries. It isn't talked about often, but the chance of female ACL injuries is impacted by the menstrual cycle.
There might be some debate on this point, but having worked with female athletes for decades, Dr. Sterett tells us that the menstrual cycle is indeed a contributing factor in knee injuries.
Two Things Skiers Can Do to Avoid ACL Tears
So we’ve established that skiers are a high-risk group when it comes to major knee injuries. And among skiers, females are even higher risk because of some unique anatomical factors.
Although we can’t change our biology, there are some things we can consider in terms of technique when it comes to avoiding knee injuries.
In this final video, Dr. Sterett offers two knee injury prevention tips for skiers. If you can keep these in mind, you can lessen the risk for ACL tears.
Have Fun Skiing, But Know The Risk
Skiing really is one of the most fun, challenging, and rewarding activities you can participate in. Whether you are cruising the greens or taking on expert terrain, there is a little something for everyone. Just understand that when you get outside your comfort zone, the result can be injury.
So when you are skiing, make sure to take breaks. Stay hydrated. And stay within your limits! By following these tips, you lessen the chance of injury.
But if you do suffer an ACL tear, know that we are well trained to deal with it, and you’ll be back to doing what you love in no time.
Have fun!
