What it takes: Knee ligament injuries
A twisting fall with the skis locked in place is a classic way to tear the ACL or MCL. Many injuries happen late in the day when legs are tired.
Skiing and snowboarding
Speed, twisting falls and long days in cold, bright mountain air.
A day on the slopes is a full-body workout in beautiful places. The risks are tied to speed and falls. Skiers tend to hurt knees, while snowboarders tend to hurt wrists. Cold, altitude and strong sun at elevation add their own strain.
What it takes and what to do
What it takes: Wrist sprains and fractures
Snowboarders often fall onto an outstretched hand, which can sprain or break the wrist. Skiers can injure the thumb when they fall holding a pole.
What to do about Wrist sprains and fractures
Wear the right protective gearAs neededPut on a well-fitted helmet and the pads, guards or mouthguard your sport calls for, every time.What it takes: Head injuries
Collisions with trees, other people and icy ground can cause concussions and more serious brain injuries. Helmets lower the risk of serious head injury.
What it takes: Frostbite and hypothermia
Wind on a chairlift and wet gloves chill fingers, toes, cheeks and ears fast. Long cold days can also lower your core temperature.
What to do about Frostbite and hypothermia
Dress in layers for the coldAs neededWear several loose layers, a hat, gloves and waterproof insulated boots, and carry spares.What it takes: Sunburn and snow glare
UV is stronger at elevation and snow reflects much of it back up at you. Skin burns quickly, and unprotected eyes can get sunburned too.
What to do about Sunburn and snow glare
Wear sunscreen every dayDailyPut broad-spectrum SPF 30+ on exposed skin each morning and reapply every two hours outdoors. Wear sun-protective clothingAs neededCover up with a wide-brimmed hat, UV-blocking sunglasses and tightly woven long sleeves when you are out in the sun.When to see a professional
Get care for a knee that pops and swells or feels unstable, a wrist or thumb that is swollen or deformed, or numb, white or hard skin that doesn't warm up. Get emergency care for any head injury with confusion, vomiting or worsening headache.