Hitting the Slopes? Leave Back Pain Behind When Skiing

Planning to hit the slopes? Don’t get hit with back pain as well. Skiing can take a toll on the body, effecting knees, hips and the back.

Back muscles provide stability, keeping the rest of your body aligned while you are skiing down the snow-covered hills. Everyone experiences spills and falls, and even mild fall can jar or twist the spine, placing added stress on the back. By conditioning your body beforehand you may reduce the possibility of injury and pain.

“Conditioning your body before you engage in skiing or any athletic activity can prevent muscle tears, hamstring pulls and other more serious injuries,” said Ronald D. De Jong, D.C., of Texas Back Institute.

You can condition your body for a ski trip by exercising consistently for at least six weeks before hitting the slopes. By choosing an aerobic activity, such as walking, running or cycling you can reduce your chances of getting an injury and will not experience fatigue as quickly.

When working out try to push yourself hard for two to three minutes and then return back to a consistent level. This will help you build stamina and strength, preventing you from falling into fatigue when gliding on the slopes. Walking hills is also a great way to condition yourself for a skiing trip because it helps build strength in the legs. Additional exercises such as squats and lunges will also help you build strong legs needed for strength and endurance when skiing.

Tips for the slopes:

• Ski on slopes that fit your ability level

• Stretch before and after you engage in skiing activities. Stretching aids in reducing soreness

• Bring a bottle of water and a snack with you to reduce your chances of dehydration, fatigue and or altitude sickness

• Remember to not take big risks: don’t ski when you are tired. Most injuries occur when the body is fatigued

Texas Back Institute, Plano, Texas: As one of the nation's largest spine clinics, the Texas Back Institute is the expert in solutions for back pain. Founded in 1978, the Texas Back Institute has always recommended non-surgical treatments because we know they work best to relieve pain in most patients. The professional staff includes board-certified orthopedic surgeons with spine fellowship training, general surgeons, general medicine physicians, internists, chiropractors, physiatrists, pain specialists, exercise physiologists and a team of physical and occupational therapists. From non-operative spine care to surgery, the Texas Back Institute offers chiropractic care, diagnostic procedures, fitness services, pain management, patient education, physical therapy, research and return-to-work programs including work conditioning and work hardening. To learn more about the Texas Back Institute and to obtain free updates and helpful back tips, go to www.texasback.com or call 1-800-247-BACK. Texas Back Institute's with offices in Denton, Fort Worth, Garland, Greenville, Hurst, Midland, Plano, TX and Phoenix, AZ. For additional information, visit the Texas Back Institute website at www.texasback.com

MEDIA CONTACT
For more information, contact Meredith Falke, (214) 891-7795 meredith_falke@richards.com

Consumer phone number: 1-800-247-BACK