Winter sports like skiing, snowboarding, and ice skating are exciting and popular during the colder months. However, they also carry a higher risk of injury, particularly to the hand, wrist, and elbow. Dr. Robert Unsell, an orthopedic hand surgeon in Oklahoma City, offers valuable insights on how to prevent and treat these injuries to keep you active all winter long.

Common Winter Sports Injuries to the Upper Extremities
Winter sports often involve falls and high-impact activities, increasing the likelihood of
injuries to the hand and upper extremities. The most common injuries include:

• Wrist Fractures: A fall on an outstretched hand can result in a fracture of the
  distal radius or scaphoid. Skiers and snowboarders are particularly vulnerable to
  this type of injury, especially when using poles or performing tricks.
• Elbow Dislocations and Fractures: High-speed falls on the ice or snow can
  lead to elbow injuries, such as dislocations or fractures of the radial head. These
  injuries often require immediate attention to avoid long-term complications.
• Finger and Hand Ligament Tears: Catching a finger on equipment or a hard fall
  can lead to ligament tears or dislocations, affecting grip strength and dexterity.
  Prevention Tips for Winter Sports Injuries
  While winter sports can be risky, there are several steps you can take to minimize the
  chances of injury:
• Proper Gear: Wear wrist guards or padded gloves to protect your hands and
  wrists. Ensure your skis, snowboards, and ice skates are properly fitted to reduce
  strain and avoid accidental falls.
• Warm-Up and Stretch: Cold muscles are more prone to injury. Be sure to warm
  up and stretch before hitting the slopes or ice rink to maintain flexibility and avoid
  stiffness.
• Focus on Technique: Learn and practice proper technique to reduce the risk of
  injury. For example, avoid putting your hands out to catch yourself during a fall,
  as this can lead to wrist fractures. Instead, try to roll or fall on your side.
• Stay Conditioned: Winter sports require significant physical endurance and
  strength. Maintaining good fitness throughout the year can reduce fatigue and
  help prevent accidents caused by overexertion.

Treatment Options for Upper Extremity Injuries
If you experience a hand, wrist, or elbow injury, it’s important to seek medical attention
promptly. Dr. Robert Unsell specializes in treating upper extremity injuries using both
surgical and non-surgical methods. His approach is tailored to each patient, depending
on the severity and type of injury.

• Non-Surgical Treatments: In many cases, minor fractures and ligament injuries
  can be treated conservatively with immobilization, physical therapy, or injections
  to promote healing.
• Surgical Options: For more severe fractures, dislocations, or tears, surgery may
  be necessary to repair the injury and restore function. Dr. Unsell is an expert in
  advanced surgical techniques designed to minimize recovery time and optimize
  outcomes.

By taking the right precautions and knowing what to do in case of injury, you can enjoy
your favorite winter sports without the fear of long-term damage. Should an injury occur,
Dr. Robert Unsell and his team are here to help you get back to your active lifestyle with
comprehensive, expert care.

For more information or to schedule a consultation, contact:

Dr. Robert Unsell, MD
Orthopedic Hand Surgeon

PHONE: 405.692.3748
EMAIL: darcyc@okss.com

OUR LOCATION: OSSO SOUTH
10001 S. Western | Suite 101 | Oklahoma City, OK 73139

Stay safe, stay active, and make the most of this winter season!