Broken legs, skier's thumb and 'sled head': Just some of the injuries risked by Winter Olympians
Medical Xpress
February 13, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The Winter Olympics showcase athletes pushing the limits of human performance on snow and ice, but this pursuit of excellence comes with significant risks. From broken legs to skier’s thumb and “sled head,” winter sports participants face a range of injuries due to high speeds, icy surfaces, and physically demanding activities. These injuries highlight the extreme nature of Olympic competition and the challenges athletes must overcome to compete at the highest level.
Many winter sports involve navigating steep slopes, performing complex maneuvers, or colliding with equipment, all while moving at breakneck speeds. Skiing and snowboarding, for example, require balance, strength, and precision to avoid collisions with trees, other competitors, or the ground. The physical demands of these sports make them inherently risky, as even a minor mistake can lead to serious injuries like fractures, concussions, or ligament tears.
To mitigate these risks, athletes undergo rigorous training regimens that focus on building strength, flexibility, and awareness. However, accidents are inevitable in such high-stakes environments. For instance, skier’s thumb—a tear of the ulnar collateral ligament in the wrist—commonly occurs when a skier falls and their hand is forced outward. Similarly, “sled head,” a term used to describe concussions caused by collisions during events like bobsledding or skeleton racing, underscores the potential for severe head injuries.
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Originally published on Medical Xpress on 2/13/2026