Experience and conditioning are strongly associated with lower injury risk. Loose, heavy snow increases the risk of lower extremity injury, as skis tend to get trapped in the snow, leading to knee and ankle injuries. Icy conditions increase upper extremity injury, as skies slides out from under the skier. Well-fitting boots and properly adjusted bindings help minimize ankle and knee injuries. Lower leg fractures to the tibia, fibula or femur can occur in a twisting fall.
Diagnosis is based on history and X-ray exam.
The Achilles tendon can be ruptured as the result of an abrupt stop and forward fall. This injury often happens when the skier collides with a large mogul. However, ankle sprains and ligament injuries are uncommon because the ski boot tends to protect the ankle joint. Knee injuries are extremely common. Diagnosis of knee injuries is usually based on history and physical exam, but occasionally requires techniques such as MRI to arrive at a conclusive diagnosis.