Medically reviewed by Misty Seidenburg
Winter is here in the U.S., and for many people, that means hitting the rink and the slopes. Skiing, snowboarding, and hockey are great ways to stay active and have fun in the colder months.
But if you enjoy these activities, it’s essential to be mindful of the risk of injuries, particularly concussions. Learn how to recognize the signs of head trauma and the crucial role of physical therapy in the concussion recovery process.
A concussion is a traumatic brain injury (TBI) that occurs when the head is struck or jolted with significant force, causing the brain to move or twist inside the skull. This can lead to chemical changes that affect brain function.
Unlike injuries with visible signs like lacerations or bleeding, concussions often manifest with subtle symptoms that can develop gradually. Recognizing these signs is crucial in understanding the potential for a TBI, allowing you to be prepared and informed in case of an injury.
A brain injury can cause many physical, cognitive, and emotional changes. Concussion affects everyone differently, but symptoms can include:
Some people display concussion symptoms soon after being injured, while others do not notice changes until days after the accident. It’s also common for symptoms to change over time. It’s always wise to see a healthcare provider after any forceful impact to the head, even if you do not have obvious signs of a head injury.
If you or someone you know has experienced severe head injury symptoms such as loss of consciousness, repeated vomiting, or weakness in the arms or legs, it’s crucial to seek immediate medical care. These may be signs of a more severe head injury that requires urgent medical treatment.
When it comes to winter sports, there are some sobering statistics regarding head injuries. Head injuries account for approximately one-fifth of all skiing and snowboarding injuries among children. Concussion rates are highest among children, young adults, and beginners, highlighting the prevalence of this issue and the need for caution.
And, for skiers and snowboarders of all ages, traumatic brain injury is the most common severe injury reported. Up to 42% of ski-related head injuries are severe enough to cause concussion symptoms.
If we look at concussion rates in ice hockey, the statistics are also concerning. An estimated one-third of concussions in youth sports are attributed to ice hockey. Among the pros, nearly 90% of hockey players have had at least one concussion.
So, why are concussions so common in winter sports?
Skiing, snowboarding, and hockey are all high-speed activities that take place on wet, slippery surfaces. For skiers and snowboarders, the terrain can be unpredictable. Missing a turn, hitting an unexpected obstacle, or losing balance can cause a nasty fall or collision with another object or person.
For ice hockey players, collisions come with the territory. When a player collides with another player, the ground, or the wall at a high speed, that impact can force the brain to move inside the skull. Although most leagues have implemented rules prohibiting targeting the head, accidental head contact can happen when two players battle for the puck.
The good news is that there are things you can do to protect your head and brain when enjoying your favorite winter activities.
A well-fitting, certified helmet is essential for skiing, snowboarding, and ice hockey. Ice hockey helmets should be certified by a reputable organization to ensure they meet safety standards. It should sit flat on the head, covering the top and sides, with a snug but comfortable fit, stopping about 1/2 inch to an inch above the eyebrows. Having a helmet fit by a specialty shop trained in fitting can ensure correct fit and reduce the risk of injury.
Generally, the same guidelines apply to skiing and snowboarding helmets, which should also be safety-certified. Helmets should fit snuggly to the top of goggles, leaving no gap in between. The helmet should never come down too low that it pushes goggles down or hinders vision.
Conditioning improves endurance, flexibility, and muscle strength, preparing you to better withstand the demands of your winter sport. It also leads to greater balance and stability, improving your performance and lowering your risk of sprains, strains, overuse injuries, and falls, which are a leading cause of concussions.
Practice and lessons are an excellent way to teach winter athletes how to fall safely. Proper form and technique can not only help you avoid concussions but also help you reduce your risk of musculoskeletal injuries like broken bones, sprains, and strains. You can work on your technique with a coach, instructor, or physical therapist who works with athletes.
Always follow the safety rules and guidelines for your sport. Hockey players should avoid arm-to-head, foot-to-head, and head-to-head collisions with other players. Snowboarders and skiers should stick to designated areas and always be aware of their surroundings, including getting on and off chairlifts.
Physical therapy for concussions is a safe, supervised treatment modality to improve areas of the brain affected by a brain injury: balance, coordination, gait, and stability. Concussion therapy has several components, each working to help winter athletes return to normal activities and reduce the risk of long-term complications.
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A comprehensive concussion care program includes:
Every patient’s concussion therapy program is customized for their symptoms and therapy goals. As they progress, their concussion treatment plan is updated to continue meeting their needs until they are cleared for full activity.
Concussion recovery generally happens in phases. The acute phase is the initial period when symptoms are most severe. Rest and symptom management are recommended at this time.
During the subacute phase, symptoms begin to improve, and the injured person can gradually return to light activities. In the recovery phase, most symptoms have subsided. The focus turns to return to full participation in activities at an appropriate progression determined by a healthcare provider.
While most concussions resolve within a few weeks, more severe concussions can last for several months or longer. Always follow your provider’s guidance for treating symptoms and safely and gradually resuming daily activities.
Winter sports can be thrilling, but safety should always be a top priority. Protecting against head injuries is good for your health. If you experience a concussion, physical therapy can help you treat your symptoms and get back on the slopes and in the rink safely. Find a physical therapy clinic near you.
