These wrist guards have been shown to be very effective in preventing wrist injuries in in-line skaters. Although protective equipment decreases the overall incidence of injury by reducing the force of impact, it may actually place the areas proximate to the device at increased risk, by shifting the distribution of impact forces. This hand position minimizes the temptation of snowboarders to check themselves with an open hand when falling, since falling on a hyperextended wrist increases the risk of injury. Falling backward was the mechanism of injury in almost three quarters of wrist injuries in one series. Since beginners are most likely to lose their balance and fall backward, they are most likely to benefit from wearing wrist guards.
Some instructors have their beginning students use ski poles to decrease the frequency of falling.
Another frequent impact area in beginning snowboarders is the back of the head. Fortunately, the force load on the head is usually relatively mild since most of the force is first absorbed by the buttocks, back and upper extremities, and impact usually results only in headache. Many instructors recommend that beginning snowboarders wear a helmet during their initial attempts at the sport to prevent or reduce the severity of head injuries. M.D. The authors thank Chris McLaughlin for editorial assistance in the preparation of the manuscript. He is also the medical director of sports medicine.