Watch out for the cold! In winter is responsible for many falls and other seasonal injuries. Sprains, fractures, or frostbite could be waiting for you—whether you’re skiing or just walking over a patch of black ice. Find out how to minimize the risks and avoid an unexpected trip to the emergency room.
Why are winter injuries so common?
Winter is a season full of hazards! There’s black ice, poor visibility, and your irresistible urge to hit the ski slopes as soon as you see snowflakes. In Switzerland, according to the Swiss Council for Accident Prevention, there are more than 52,000 winter sports-related accidents every year. And in 9 out of 10 cases, the accidents are self-inflicted—oops. But that’s not all! Slippery sidewalks can also cause serious damage, and one wrong step can leave you flat on your back—sometimes with a sprain to top it off.
Here are the 5 most common winter injuries
Here are the top injuries to watch out for this winter, along with their symptoms:
1. Sprains and strains
Whether you misjudge a ski turn or lose your balance running for the bus, sprains often affect the ankle or knee. The pain is usually immediate, followed by swelling. Mild sprains may heal with rest and cold therapy, but more severe ones require medical attention and often physiotherapy sessions.
2. Fractures
A bad fall can easily lead to a fracture, with the wrist, arm, or hip being the most vulnerable areas. Some fractures are clean breaks, while others result in hairline cracks that cause pain with every movement.
3. Dislocations
A dislocation occurs when a bone pops out of its joint. A wrong move while skiing can shift your shoulder out of place, or a hard fall on the ice can dislodge your kneecap. In addition to pain, you may notice visible deformation.
4. Frostbite
You don’t need -20°C temperatures for your fingers to freeze and hurt. Frostbite happens when blood circulation is insufficient in your extremities (fingers, toes, ears, nose). The first signs? Tingling, pale skin, or a burning sensation. In severe cases, blisters may form, potentially leading to permanent tissue damage. If it’s mild, you might not need medical attention.
5. Hypothermia
Hypothermia occurs when your body temperature drops below 35°C. Symptoms include shivering, fatigue, slurred speech, and loss of coordination. If you’re planning a winter hike or a ski trip, dress warmly and you should be fine.
How to prevent winter injuries
If you want to avoid spending the winter in a cast or bandages, here are a few precautions you can take:
Prepare your body for winter sports
- Warm up: Before hitting the slopes, spend a few minutes warming up (focus on knees, ankles, and wrists). Not the most exciting part, but it can prevent a lot of injuries.
- Strengthen your muscles: If you plan to ski frequently, targeted training (core exercises, squats, lunges) can help stabilize your joints.
- Know your limits: If your legs feel tired, don’t push yourself too hard.
Choose the right gear for the cold
- Non-slip shoes: For walking on snow or ice, grippy soles or mini-crampons can make a huge difference.
- Warm, breathable clothing: The goal isn’t to look like a Michelin Man! Use the three-layer system: a moisture-wicking base layer, an insulating middle layer, and a protective outer layer against wind and snow.
- Helmet and protective gear: Whether you’re skiing, snowboarding, sledding, or even ice skating, a properly fitted helmet can prevent head injuries. Wrist guards and knee pads aren’t just for beginners!
What to do if you get injured
Even with all the precautions in the world, accidents can still happen. Here are some first-aid steps to help minimize the damage:
1. Immediate actions
- Rest: Stop the activity that caused your injury right away.
- Apply cold: Wrap an ice pack in a cloth and apply it to the painful area for about 10 minutes to reduce inflammation.
2. Warning signs that require medical attention
- Persistent or intense pain: If the pain doesn’t ease after a few hours, it’s not a good sign—consult a healthcare professional!
- Significant swelling or visible deformity: If your injury is clearly misshapen (like an arm that no longer looks like well… an arm), head straight to the emergency room!
- Numbness or difficulty moving: If you can’t feel your fingers or struggle to hold objects, seek medical help quickly.
Once you’re fully recovered, you can get back to winter sports—but take it slow!
Stay safe this winter!
Winter is the perfect time to enjoy the snow, but beware of the cold and slippery surfaces. With proper preparation, the right gear, and smart habits, you can greatly reduce your risk of injury. And if you do get hurt, don’t delay seeking medical advice—it’s always better to be safe than sorry!
