Figure Skating Injuries

Skaters around the world continue to push the sport by attempting increasingly difficult technical and artistic content in their programs. In working on these elements, skaters are practicing more repetitions at a younger age to master these skills.

Skating injuries differ across each discipline. This is reflected by the different physical demands placed on the skaters in each category. Acute injuries (injuries caused by a specific movement, e.g. a fall) are more common in ice dance, pairs, synchro, and adults.¹ Whereas chronic injuries (over-use, e.g. injury caused by repetitive use over time) are more common in singles skaters.¹

These are the top 3 injuries reported in the sport:

1. Ankle injuries are the most common injury in figure skating.^1,2 Achilles tendinopathy and sprains are the most reported injury within the ankle/foot region.^1,2 Often, ankle sprains are overlooked, and rehabilitation is not sought after. Ankles are a key joint in figure skating as they play a crucial role in edge control and stability.

2. Knee injuries are the second most reported injury,^1,2 and the most common injury amongst synchro and adult skaters.¹ Knee injuries stem form a combination of growth, muscle imbalances, and over-use injuries.

3. Low back pain is commonly reported amongst singles and pairs skaters.¹ Specific skills place high stress on the back, like lifts, spins, and jumps. A close look at the core, alignment, and muscle length/imbalances are key.

Although injuries can’t be prevented, there are ways to decrease the risk of injuries in figure skaters. More information to come soon! When injuries do happen, it is important to seek medical attention to ensure a complete and timely recovery while maintaining safe training. Getting in to see your physiotherapist is good place to start. They’ll be able to guide your recovery and refer to your family doctor if necessary. If you’re looking for a skating specific physio, look no further! Book your physiotherapy session here.

References:

¹Han JS, Geminiani ET, Micheli LJ. Epidemiology of Figure Skating Injuries: A Review of the Literature. Sports Health. 2018 Nov/Dec;10(6):532-537. doi: 10.1177/1941738118774769. Epub 2018 May 8. PMID: 29738281; PMCID: PMC6204632.

²Kowalczyk, Agnieszka D. MD^*,†,‡; Geminiani, Ellen T. MD^*,†,‡; Dahlberg, Bridget W. MPH^*,†; Micheli, Lyle J. MD^*,†,‡; Sugimoto, Dai PhD^*,†,‡. Pediatric and Adolescent Figure Skating Injuries: A 15-Year Retrospective Review. Clinical Journal of Sport Medicine: May 2021 - Volume 31 - Issue 3 - p 295-303 doi: 10.1097/JSM.0000000000000743