ScienceDaily (Feb. 1, 2010) — Helmets reduce the risk of head injury among skiers and snowboarders by 35% with no evidence of an increased risk of neck injury, according to an article in CMAJ (Canadian Medical Association Journal).

Some suggest that helmets may increase the risk of neck injury in a crash or fall, particularly in children because of their greater head to body ratio.

Skiing and snowboarding are popular winter activities. Estimates from numerous countries indicate that head injuries account for up to 19% and neck injuries up to 4% of all injuries reported by ski patrols and emergency departments. Traumatic brain injury is the leading cause of death and serious injury among skiers and snowboarders.

The study, an analysis of 12 studies conducted in Europe, Asia, and North America, found that helmet use in recreational activities is beneficial. However, the authors were unable to determine the design, quality, or fit of the helmets.

"The use of helmets significantly protects against head injuries among skiers and snowboarders," write Brent Hagel, Alberta Children's Hospital, and coauthors. "Risks of head injury can be reduced by 35%...and between 2 and 5 of every 10 head injuries among helmet users could be prevented."

"Based on this evidence, we encourage helmet use," conclude the authors.

Recommend this story on Facebook, Twitter,
and Google +1:

Other bookmarking and sharing tools:

Story Source:

The above story is reprinted from materials provided by Canadian Medical Association Journal, via EurekAlert!, a service of AAAS.

Note: Materials may be edited for content and length. For further information, please contact the source cited above.

Journal Reference:

1. K. Russell, J. Christie, B. E. Hagel. The effect of helmets on the risk of head and neck injuries among skiers and snowboarders: a meta-analysis. Canadian Medical Association Journal, 2010; 182 (4): 333 DOI: 10.1503/cmaj.091080

Disclaimer: This article is not intended to provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Views expressed here do not necessarily reflect those of ScienceDaily or its staff.

Related Stories

Rise In Serious Head Injuries Among Snowboarders And Skiers (Dec. 10, 2007) — Serious head injuries among alpine skiers and snowboarders have risen over the past 15 years. The increase has coincided with faster speed and the inclusion of more jumping and acrobatics as the norm ...  > read more

Role of Helmets in Reducing Skull Fractures Incurred by Children in Skiing and Snowboarding Accidents (Feb. 20, 2011) — New research reviews skull fractures incurred by young skiers and snowboarders and the role helmets play in reducing these head injuries. Severe head trauma is the most frequent cause of death and ...  > read more

Helmets Must Be Part of Skiing and Snowboarding Culture, Doctors Urge (Feb. 18, 2010) — While the world's best skiers and snowboarders at the Vancouver 2010 Olympic Winter Games compete with helmets on, many other skiers and snowboarders are choosing to forgo this important piece of ...  > read more

Is It Time for All Skiers to Wear Helmets? (Feb. 11, 2011) — In a bid to decrease brain injuries from skiing and snowboarding accidents, experts are calling for more public awareness to promote ski ...  > read more

Search ScienceDaily