Upper limb in injuries in dry ski slope skiing--a continuing problem

Eur J Emerg Med. 2000 Mar;7(1):31-4. doi: 10.1097/00063110-200003000-00006.

Abstract

The aim of this study was to assess how common injuries to the upper limbs are from dry ski slope skiing, to document the pattern of injury to the upper limbs from dry ski slope skiing and to discuss preventative measures. Skier's experience was also determined. The study was carried out on 174 patients attending the accident and emergency department over a period of 3 years who had sustained injuries from dry ski slope skiing. Prospective registration was used to collect the data. Sixty-seven per cent of the patients had received instructions prior to skiing. Upper limb injuries outnumbered lower limb injuries by a ratio of 7.9 to 1. Thumb injuries outnumbered other injuries in the upper limb. The mechanism of injury was due to a fall in 94.2% of patients. It is concluded that the lattice network on dry ski slopes significantly contributes to the platform of injuries to the upper limbs, and ways in which the lattice network may be improved are recommended.

MeSH terms

  • Accidental Falls / statistics & numerical data
  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Age Distribution
  • Aged
  • Arm Injuries / epidemiology*
  • Arm Injuries / etiology*
  • Arm Injuries / prevention & control
  • Biomechanical Phenomena
  • Child
  • Child, Preschool
  • Emergency Treatment / methods
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Prospective Studies
  • Registries
  • Risk Factors
  • Skiing / injuries*
  • Surface Properties
  • Surveys and Questionnaires
  • United Kingdom / epidemiology