The relationship between knee pain and skiing is a complicated relationship for anyone who loves spending the winter on the snow. But before putting the ski pass in the drawer and the boots and technical clothing in the wardrobe, it is good to understand if the pain is an alarm signal or simply the result of an intense day on the slopes.
Knee pain and skiing: when it’s “good” and when it’s “bad”
Skiing puts a lot of strain on the knees and patellar tendons. If you don’t train properly in the off-season, the risk of soreness is just around the corner. The so-called “good pain” is felt at the beginning of the season, especially in the patellar tendons and hamstrings, which absorb the load and maintain the edge of the ski on the snow. This pain, related to underpreparation, improves with time spent on the slopes and responds well to some ice, stretching, warm baths before skiing and massages after.
“Bad pain”, however, varies depending on the injury and its location. Pain in the front of the knee, for example, accompanied by mechanical noises and clicking of the kneecap, may indicate damage to the articular cartilage under the kneecap. If it only hurts when skiing and/or even afterwards, there are various therapies that may work well.
When to worry
If the pain persists despite classic remedies, it could be a more serious sign. Symptoms such as clicking, swelling, popping, and stiffness may indicate that the joint is in trouble. In these cases, it is important to seek proper diagnosis and treatment before continuing to ski.
Common skier’s knee injuries
Skiing injuries are common and range from ligament injuries (especially ACL and MCL), meniscal tears, patellofemoral pain, fractures and more…
Treatment options
Luckily, there are many treatments available. We typically start with relatively simple and familiar options.
Apply the RICE Method (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation)
Rest
Ice
Compression
Elevation
Physical therapy: Stretching and muscle strengthening exercises can be effective for mild knee inflammation. Adaptive clothing, such as a sleeve that goes above the knee, can also be introduced for additional support.
What if physical therapy doesn’t work?
If this method does not offer relief and the pain persists, especially for a prolonged period, it is time to schedule a visit to the orthopedic specialist, who will perform an x-ray and exam to better understand the condition of the knee.
Minimally invasive options
Anti-inflammatory dressings: to relieve pain and inflammation
Injection therapies: to treat inflammation and promote healing
Steroids: Powerful at lowering inflammation and suitable for short-term relief
Hyaluronic Acid: for knee lubrication and pain relief
PRP (platelet-rich plasma): derived from the patient’s blood, can in some cases promote and accelerate healing
Stem cell therapies: These are also used selectively to treat knee injuries and degenerations
What if these options don’t work either?
If knee pain does not respond to conservative measures or persists for more than 2 to 3 months, advanced imaging may be necessary. Depending on the exact condition, surgery may be the best option.
Conclusion
Knee pain is not to be taken lightly. If you have pain, resolve the problem promptly. Remember, skiing forever means enjoying every day. Take care of your knees, so you can return to the slopes stronger than ever!
READ ALSO: 10 easy preski exercises to do at home
Photo by Maarten Duineveld / Harrison Moore / Glade Optics
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2024-02-05 14:53:48
#Knee #pain #skiing #worry
