Japan has certainly become one of the top skiing destinations for numerous Singaporeans due to its renowned ski resorts, diverse ski terrains, and picturesque snowy landscapes. From the end of November to early April, a multitude of people in Singapore flock to popular skiing areas such as Hokkaido and Nagano to ski to their heart’s content.
Although skiing can be a thrilling sport that gives adrenaline seekers a dopamine high, it is essential for all skiers to note that skiing typically carries a moderate risk of injury. Alps Orthopaedic Centre’s Senior Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon, Dr Jerry Chen —a veteran who has treated hundreds of cases of ski injuries— notes that even seasoned athletes may still get hurt when they hit the slopes. Therefore, it is paramount for all skiers to be cautious and well-prepared to minimise the risk of getting hurt.
Understanding common ski injuries and taking preventive measures can significantly reduce the likelihood of accidents. In this blog article, our sports injury specialist in Singapore, Dr Chen, provides key insights into common types of ski injuries, preventive steps and what to do if you get injured overseas.
Is it Dangerous to Ski?
Skiing, while thrilling, is physically demanding and involves various hazards. The high speeds and unpredictable terrain characteristic of skiing make it prone to accidents. Falls, collisions, and abrupt movements often lead to sports injuries. Additionally, unprepared muscles, incorrect posture, and improper equipment increase the likelihood of harm.
By understanding the risks associated with skiing, individuals can make informed choices about training, safety precautions, and medical preparations before hitting the slopes.
What Are Common Skiing Injuries?
Type of Injury | Symptoms | Causes | Examples |
Knee Injuries | Pain, swelling, instability, difficulty walking or bending the knee | Twisting motions, sudden falls, or improper landings | ACL tears, meniscus injuries |
Hip Injuries | Pain, difficulty walking, bruising, visible deformity | Falls leading to direct impact or unnatural leg positioning | Hip dislocations, hip fractures |
Foot and Ankle Injuries | Pain, swelling, bruising, difficulty bearing weight, stiffness | Improperly fitting ski boots, twisting injuries from falls | Ankle sprains, fractures |
Shoulder Dislocations and Fractures | Pain, deformity, difficulty moving the arm, swelling, bruising | Falling on an outstretched hand or direct impact to the shoulder | |
Wrist Fractures from Falls | Pain, swelling, tenderness, difficulty moving or gripping objects | Falling and using hands to break the fall | Colles’ fracture, scaphoid fracture |
What Preventative Tips Make Skiing Safer?
Taking preventive steps before and during skiing can significantly reduce the risk of injury. At Alps Orthopaedic Centre, we advise our patients to do the following to stay safe during their ski trips.
Choose the Right Equipment
Selecting appropriate ski equipment, such as skis, boots, and ski bindings, is crucial for safety.
- Skill Level: Equipment should match your skiing ability. Beginners should opt for shorter, more flexible skis that are easier to control, while advanced skiers may require stiffer skis for better performance at high speeds.
- Proper Size: Equipment must fit correctly. For instance, excessively large or small boots can lead to discomfort and reduced control, increasing the risk of accidents. A snug fit of equipment is essential for effective energy transfer from the skier to the skis.
- Regular Maintenance: Incorrectly set bindings can either release too easily or not at all, potentially leading to injuries during falls. Therefore, regular checks and adjustments of ski bindings are vital at the start of the ski season, directly before each skiing session, after falls, and when terrains change.
- Professional Inspection: Have a ski technician check and adjust bindings at the start of each ski season or after a significant change in equipment or weight.
- Self-Checks: Directly before you hit the slopes, always check that bindings are clean and securely attached to the skis. Be sure to test the release by applying controlled force to ensure the bindings release as expected.
Wear Protective Gear
Protective gear significantly reduces injury severity.
- Helmets: Wearing a helmet is crucial as it protects against head injuries during falls or collisions. Modern helmets also offer ventilation and comfort features.
- Additional Gear: Wrist guards and knee pads can further protect vulnerable areas during falls. These accessories help absorb impact and prevent serious injuries.
Warm-Up and Stretch
A proper warm-up is not just helpful; it is essential for skiing. It reduces injury risk, optimises performance, and ensures that your body is prepared for the physical challenges of the sport. Investing 10 to 15 minutes in warming up can make a significant difference in enjoying a safe and injury-free skiing experience.
- Dynamic Stretching: Engage in dynamic stretches such as leg swings and bodyweight lunges before hitting the slopes. This helps increase blood flow to muscles and enhances flexibility, reducing the risk of strains.
- Specific Exercises: Incorporate exercises like squats and arm circles while wearing your ski boots to mimic the skiing stance. This prepares your muscles for the specific demands of skiing.
Stay Hydrated and Rested
Proper hydration and rest are often overlooked yet critical for injury prevention.
- Hydration Needs: Proper hydration is essential for skiing, even in cold weather, as dehydration can occur just as easily in winter as in warmer conditions. Drink water regularly throughout the day to maintain optimal hydration levels, which is essential for muscle function.
- For Men: In general, aim for 3 to 4 litres (12–16 cups) of water per day while skiing.
- For Women: In general, aim for 2.5 to 3 litres (8–12 cups) of water per day while skiing.
- Resting Time: Fatigue can impair judgment and reaction times. Schedule regular breaks to rest and recharge, especially after challenging runs.
Adopting these tips will help make your skiing experience safer, enabling you to enjoy the thrill of the slopes while minimising injury risks.
When Do You Need To Consult a Doctor for a Ski Injury?
Past Injuries
Skiers with a history of injuries should consult an orthopaedic surgeon before embarking on a skiing adventure to reduce the risk of aggravating past injuries or sustaining new ones.
- Assessment of Injury Recovery: An orthopaedic surgeon can evaluate whether the previously injured area (e.g., knee, hip, or shoulder) has fully healed. They can assess muscle strength, joint stability, and range of motion to determine if it is safe to ski.
- Activity Modifications: Based on the nature of the previous injury, the surgeon can advise on skiing intensity, terrain types, or techniques to avoid undue strain. For example, someone recovering from a knee ligament injury may need to avoid steep slopes or moguls initially.
- Preventative Measures: Surgeons can recommend braces, supports, or orthotic devices to protect vulnerable joints or areas while skiing. They can suggest specific physiotherapy exercises to strengthen muscles around the injured site, improving stability and reducing injury risks.
- Guidance on Pain Management: If residual pain is a concern, a surgeon can recommend appropriate pain relief strategies, such as medication or physical therapy, for a comfortable skiing experience.
New Injuries
While minor aches and soreness are common after skiing, certain symptoms may indicate a more serious injury requiring medical attention. Seek help from a doctor promptly if you experience any of the following symptoms:
- Severe Pain and Swelling: Persistent or intense pain and swelling that do not subside with rest may signal fractures, ligament tears, or joint damage.
- Inability to Bear Weight or Move the Joint: Difficulty walking, putting weight on an injured limb, or moving a joint indicates the possibility of severe ligament or bone injuries.
- Visible Deformity or Bruising: Obvious deformities or significant bruising suggest fractures or dislocations that need urgent care.
- Persistent Pain and Swelling Over Time: Injuries that do not improve within a few days may worsen without appropriate treatment, potentially leading to long-term complications.
Prompt consultation with a doctor can help diagnose the severity of the injury and ensure timely intervention, aiding recovery and reducing the risk of permanent damage.
What Happens When You Suffer From a Ski Injury in Japan?
If you sustain a ski injury while in Japan, knowing the steps to take can make a difference in preventing long-term complications. Here is a guide:
1. Consult a Doctor in Japan
In the event of an injury, seek medical attention rapidly. Most ski resorts in Japan have first-aid facilities, and nearby towns typically have English-speaking clinics. For convenience, you can look for English-speaking General Practitioners (GPs) who provide:
- On-Site Assessment: Quick evaluation to determine the severity of the injury and initial treatment.
- Referral Services: For severe injuries, a local doctor may provide a referral letter recommending specialist review from an orthopaedic surgeon upon your return to Singapore.
2. Book an Appointment with an Orthopaedic Surgeon in Singapore (If Necessary)
Once back in Singapore, follow up with an orthopaedic specialist to confirm the diagnosis and receive expert treatment. In some cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to address significant injuries.
You can consider booking an appointment with Alps Orthopaedic Centre. Alps Orthopaedic Centre, an orthopaedic specialist clinic that is conveniently located in Singapore’s Mt Elizabeth Hospital (Orchard), offers comprehensive medical and surgical care for all types of musculoskeletal injuries. Led by Dr Jerry Chen, a Senior Consultant orthopaedic surgeon, the clinic specialises in treating sports-related conditions, such as anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury, ski knee injury, ski calf injury, and ankle pain after skiing. He is also an expert in performing Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) surgeries.
Incurring ski injuries can be stressful, particularly in a foreign country. Alps Orthopaedic Centre provides both in-person and virtual consultations, enabling you to easily consult with an English-speaking orthopaedic surgeon even while in Japan. Speaking to an orthopaedic surgeon from your home country can offer peace of mind by clarifying the situation and next steps.
What Happens During a Ski Injury Consultation with an Orthopaedic Surgeon?
1. In-Person Consultations
It is generally preferable for you to opt for in-person consultations rather than teleconsultations when you suffer from a ski injury. This is because an in-person visit allows the orthopaedic surgeon to conduct hands-on assessments and access diagnostic imaging, which are often key for an accurate diagnosis.
Physical Examination
- A thorough assessment of the injured area will be conducted to evaluate:
- Pain levels and their location.
- Range of motion to check for joint stiffness or instability.
- Swelling, deformity, or bruising, which may indicate fractures or ligament tears.
- Strength and reflexes to determine nerve or muscle involvement.
Diagnostic Imaging
- Depending on the initial findings, imaging tests may be performed to confirm the diagnosis:
- X-rays for fractures or joint dislocations.
- MRI scans for soft tissue injuries like ligament tears or meniscal damage.
- Ultrasound for tendon or muscle injuries.
2. Virtual Consultations
Whether you are in Singapore, Japan, or any other country, you can conveniently discuss your musculoskeletal condition with Dr Jerry Chen. Here is what to expect if you wish to book a teleconsultation with Dr Chen:
Summary
Preparing for a skiing trip to Japan involves more than packing the right gear. By understanding the common risks and injuries associated with skiing, taking preventive measures, and knowing when to seek medical attention, you can enjoy your winter adventure with peace of mind. Should you experience an injury, prompt action—both in Japan and upon returning to Singapore—is crucial for recovery.
Consult An Experienced Orthopaedic Surgeon in Singapore
MBBS (S’pore), MRCSEd, MMed (Ortho), FRCSEd (Ortho)
Fellowship-trained Senior Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon & Medical Director
At Alps Orthopaedic Centre, we are committed to helping you get back on your feet after an injury. Whether you need a consultation, medical and surgical care, or rehabilitation support, Alps’ Senior Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon, Dr Jerry Chen, is here to assist. With proper preparation and guidance, you can make your skiing trip a memorable and safe experience.
Dr Chen is well-versed in all types of ski injuries, such as the following conditions:
- Knee injuries from skiing – including ACL tear, meniscus injury
- Ankle injuries from skiing – including fracture and ligament injuries
- Shoulder injuries from skiing – including shoulder dislocation and fracture
- Wrist fracture
- Back pain and injury
Financial Assurance For Your Medical Care: Recover With Peace Of Mind at Alps Orthopaedic Centre
Alps Orthopaedic Centre works with and offers panel benefits for the following insurance partners:
Important note: This list of insurance partners was retrieved from Alps Orthopaedic Centre’s insurance page in Feb 2025. Please refer to this page for the latest information.
Insurance Claims for Ski Injuries
Travelling with insurance that covers winter sports injuries is essential for anyone heading to the slopes. Winter sports, such as skiing, come with inherent risks, and injuries can result in significant medical expenses, especially if specialist care is required. Comprehensive insurance ensures that these costs are manageable and provides peace of mind during your trip. If an injury occurs, be sure to keep all receipts and documentation from your medical visits in Japan. At our orthopaedic clinic in Singapore, Alps Orthopaedic Centre offers financial counselling and assists with claims processing, ensuring a smooth recovery journey—especially if your insurance is within our panel.
