This review synthesizes existing literature concerning fatigue as a risk factor for skiing injuries. It delves into the specific physiological and cognitive pathways via which fatigue increases injury susceptibility, the types of injuries commonly associated with fatigue, and preventative measures targeted specifically at short-term holiday skiers.
Fatigue, a multifaceted phenomenon resulting from prolonged physical and mental exertion, is a significant yet often overlooked risk factor in skiing injuries. For holiday skiers, who are typically unaccustomed to the physical and environmental demands of skiing, the risk is even more pronounced. This review elucidates the intricate relationship between fatigue and skiing injuries, aiming to provide actionable insights for injury prevention.
Fatigue: Physiological and Cognitive Aspects
Physiological Fatigue
Physiological or peripheral fatigue is predominantly a result of muscle energy systems' depletion and metabolic byproduct accumulation (Enoka & Duchateau, 2008). This form of fatigue often manifests as reduced muscle strength and endurance, impacting the skier's motor control and balance.
The primary metabolic pathways involved in muscle energy production during skiing are the phosphagen system, glycolysis, and oxidative phosphorylation. The phosphagen system and glycolysis provide rapid energy but are limited in duration, while oxidative phosphorylation provides sustained energy but is slower (Bogdanis, 2012). As energy stores deplete during prolonged skiing, muscle cells struggle to maintain force production, leading to impaired ski technique and increased fall risk.
Cognitive Fatigue
Central or cognitive fatigue refers to the decline in neural activation of muscles and the accompanying decrease in mental alertness and concentration (Noakes, 2012). Neural fatigue can result from alterations in neurotransmitter levels within the central nervous system, particularly dopamine and serotonin, affecting motor control and decision-making processes.
Fatigue-Related Skiing Injuries
Lower Limb Injuries
Fatigue is a major contributing factor to lower limb injuries in skiing, especially injuries to the knees, which account for approximately one-third of all skiing injuries (Flørenes et al., 2009). The most common among these is the Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) injury, often a result of improper landing or sudden change in direction. Fatigue-induced alterations in proprioceptive feedback and muscle recruitment patterns can compromise joint stability, increasing the ACL's vulnerability (Bahr, 2009).
Head and Spinal Injuries
Fatigue-related cognitive impairments, such as slowed reaction times and impaired decision-making, can lead to severe injuries involving the head and spine. Skiers experiencing cognitive fatigue are more likely to undertake risky behaviors, such as skiing at high speeds or attempting complex maneuvers, increasing the chances of high-impact collisions and falls (Dickson et al., 2009).
Upper Limb Injuries
Upper limb injuries, though less common than lower limb injuries, can also result from fatigue. These injuries frequently occur when skiers attempt to break a fall using their hands, leading to fractures and dislocations of the wrist, elbow, or shoulder (Kim et al., 2012).
Prevention of Fatigue-Related Skiing Injuries
Pre-conditioning programs targeting cardiovascular endurance, muscle strength, balance, and flexibility can improve a skier's resistance to fatigue. Neuromuscular training, in particular, can enhance joint stability and reduce the risk of ligament injuries (LaBella et al., 2011).
Rest and Recovery
Rest intervals during skiing sessions allow for the replenishment of muscle energy stores and the clearance of metabolic byproducts. Moreover, adequate sleep contributes to cognitive recovery, improving alertness and decision-making on the slopes (Fullagar et al., 2015).
Maintaining optimal nutrition and hydration is critical in delaying the onset of fatigue. Consuming a balanced diet rich in carbohydrates can help sustain glycogen stores, while adequate hydration aids in maintaining blood volume and preventing declines in muscular and cognitive function (Casa et al., 2000).
Proper Equipment and Skiing Technique
The use of appropriate skiing equipment, tailored to the individual skier's ability level, can reduce the physical demand of skiing and delay fatigue onset. Additionally, employing proper skiing technique, often guided by professional instruction, can improve efficiency on the slopes, thereby conserving energy (Bere et al., 2013).
In light of the significant role fatigue plays in skiing injuries, it is crucial to implement comprehensive, evidence-based interventions targeting both the physiological and cognitive aspects of fatigue. With such strategies in place, holiday skiers can enjoy a safer skiing experience, minimizing the risk of fatigue-related injuries.
References
How osteopathy and physiotherapy can help minimizing theses risks ?
Osteopathy and Fatigue-Related Ski Injuries
Osteopathy, a manual healthcare approach that emphasizes the interrelationship between structure and function of the body, can significantly contribute to managing fatigue-related skiing injuries. The primary objective of osteopathy is to restore the normal functionality of the body by manipulating and strengthening the musculoskeletal framework.
Pain Management and Restoration of Mobility
Osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT) is a common therapeutic approach for managing musculoskeletal pain. Through techniques such as soft tissue manipulation, joint mobilization, and high-velocity, low-amplitude (HVLA) thrusts, osteopaths can alleviate pain, reduce inflammation, and restore joint mobility (Licciardone et al., 2003). This can prove particularly beneficial for skiers dealing with fatigue-related injuries such as joint sprains or muscle strains.
Enhanced Proprioception and Balance
Another osteopathic intervention of relevance to skiers is the facilitation of proprioception - the body's ability to perceive its position and movement in space. Proprioception is fundamental to maintaining balance and coordination during skiing, and its impairment through fatigue can increase the risk of falls and subsequent injuries (Steinberg et al., 2006). Osteopaths employ techniques such as balance training and neuromuscular re-education to enhance proprioceptive function, thereby mitigating one of the key risk factors for skiing injuries.
Physiotherapy and Fatigue-Related Skiing Injuries
Physiotherapy, or physical therapy, is a healthcare profession dedicated to the diagnosis and treatment of functional impairments. For fatigue-related skiing injuries, physiotherapy can play a significant role in both preventive and rehabilitative contexts.
Pre-Skiing Conditioning and Injury Prevention
Physiotherapists can design and implement conditioning programs to improve muscular strength, flexibility, and endurance, which in turn can delay fatigue onset and reduce injury risk (Bahr, 2009). Such programs would incorporate elements of aerobic and resistance training, as well as balance and flexibility exercises, tailored to the individual's specific needs and skiing ability level.
Post-Injury Rehabilitation
Following a skiing injury, physiotherapists play a critical role in the rehabilitation process. Through methods such as therapeutic exercises, electrotherapy, and manual therapy, they can accelerate healing, restore functionality, and reduce the risk of re-injury. For fatigue-related injuries, the physiotherapist would also address the underlying issue of fatigue, recommending strategies for improved rest, recovery, and energy management.
Education and Behaviour Modification
Physiotherapists can provide valuable education on safe skiing practices, proper use of equipment, and techniques for fall prevention. This includes teaching skiers how to recognize signs of fatigue and adjust their behavior accordingly, such as taking rest breaks or modifying their skiing technique to conserve energy. This educational role can be particularly crucial for short-term holiday skiers, who may lack awareness of the risks associated with skiing while fatigued.
In conclusion, both osteopathy and physiotherapy can contribute significantly to managing fatigue-related skiing injuries. Their roles are complementary, with osteopathy focusing primarily on pain management and functional restoration, and physiotherapy providing a broad spectrum of services from preventive conditioning and post-injury rehabilitation to patient education. Their integrated application can thus offer a comprehensive approach to ensuring safer skiing experiences, particularly for short-term holiday skiers.
References
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Steinberg, N., Hirschmann, M. T., & Kaelin, X. (2006). Alpine Ski Injuries and their Prevention. Sports Medicine, 36(12), 1003-1025.
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