Competitions like the X-Games and even the Winter Olympics include events such as snowboarding and skiing. While these slopestyle events were once considered "extreme sports," they have now become mainstream.
As exciting as these sports are to watch -- and even participate in for those of you so bold -- they are extremely dangerous.
And, as more people participate in these high-speed sports, more and more high impact collisions equal increased visits to the ER.
Only about 48% of the skiers and snowboarders wear a helmet, causing much higher risk of concussion or even skull fracture, which can ultimately lead to traumatic brain injury or death.
Parents, it's essential that you talk to your children if they have a desire to take part in these "extreme" sports. Proper education is key, as well as proper training and proper equipment and ideal conditions.
Guest expert, Dr. Christopher Hogrefe, joins the show to discuss these exciting (yet very dangerous) activities being attempted at many ski resorts and sledding hills by an increasing number of non-professionals.
The takeaway is this: if you are going to attempt to participate in these type of sports, wear proper clothing and equipment, including a helmet (even the elite athletes are required to do so)... or you could risk very serious injury.
Extreme Athletes Can Suffer Extreme Injuries
Sporting events such as snowboarding and skiing were once considered "extreme." But slope-style events have now become mainstream. How can you protect yourself from injury?
Additional Info
- Segment Number: 4
- Audio File: ER_101/1407er5d.mp3
- Featured Speaker: Christopher Hogrefe, MD
- Organization: American College of Emergency Physicians
- Guest Bio: Christopher Hogrefe, MD, is a clinical assistant professor of Emergency Medicine and Primary Care Sports Medicine at the University of Iowa. In addition to his clinical responsibilities in the emergency department, he serves as a team physician for the University of Iowa Hawkeye baseball, basketball, tennis, and field hockey teams.
- Length (mins): 10
- Waiver Received: Yes
- Host: Leigh Vinocur, MD
Published in
The Dr. Leigh Vinocur Show