Skiing injuries (Knee, wrist & shoulder)
Skiing places specific demands on the body, and injuries cluster around a few areas - the knee, especially the MCL and sometimes the ACL, from twisting falls, and the shoulder and wrist from falling onto an outstretched arm or the point of the shoulder. Long days, tiring legs, variable terrain and speed all add to the risk.
Most skiing injuries are managed well with structured rehabilitation - settling the injury, restoring movement, then rebuilding the strength and control needed to get back to sport and the slopes. Just as valuable is preparation: a targeted strength and conditioning block before a ski trip reduces injury risk and improves how you ski. Melissa assesses the injury or your pre-season readiness and builds an individualised plan.
Common questions
How do I rehab an MCL injury from skiing?
Most MCL (inner knee ligament) injuries heal well without surgery. Rehabilitation settles the early pain and swelling and protects the knee, then progressively restores movement, strength and control, and finally sport-specific work before return to skiing or other sport. Timelines depend on the grade - from a couple of weeks for minor sprains to a few months for higher grades. An assessment confirms the grade and identifies any associated injuries.
Can I prepare my body before a ski season?
Yes - and it is one of the best things you can do. A few weeks of targeted strength and conditioning before a trip - building leg and trunk strength, control and endurance - reduces injury risk and means your legs last longer on the mountain. A pre-season programme can be tailored to your fitness and the kind of skiing you do.