The core shot is one of the most common accidents that can happen to skiers. Some people are completely unhurt by the accident, while others suffer from a major injury. Let’s take a closer look at what happens when you get a core shot and how you can take proper care of yourself to avoid any further complications.
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What Is A Core Shot?
To put it simply, a core shot is when a sharp object, such as a branch or a rock, penetrates the front of your ski jacket and hits your abdomen. The force of the hit is then transferred to the bone, causing severe internal injuries. The medical term for this type of accident is “internal decapitation.” The severity of a core shot can vary from person to person. Some people may suffer moderate injuries, while others can die from the trauma alone. Fortunately, this is a very rare accident, and most people live to tell the tale.
The Most Common Injuries From A Core Shot
The most common injuries from a core shot are abrasions or lacerations to the skin, which usually occur on the abdomen or thighs. Some people also develop internal bleeding, which can be life-threatening. In rare cases, a skier can get hit in the throat or the spine, causing major injuries or death. Sometimes, you may not even feel the hit at all, as the object that caused it may not be detectable by the naked eye. This is why it is so important to always wear a protective ski jacket when skiing, as the one you are wearing can save your life in case of a core shot accident.
How Do I Recover From A Core Shot?
When you get hit by a sharp object during a skiing accident, the first thing you should do is stop moving. Reroute the energy that you have, and put it into muscle relaxation and breathing exercises. Lie down in the snow and take a break from skiing. If you lose consciousness, lay still in the snow until you regain it. Seek medical help as soon as you can, to prevent any further complications. If you follow these simple steps, you will make a full recovery and be able to enjoy your favorite hobby again.
What Protection Do I Need To Wear?
The best defense against a core shot is a protective ski jacket. The material and the construction of the jacket you wear can vary, but most jackets are able to stop a.223 caliber bullet. Many high-quality ski jackets have a “hardshell” construction, which offers the wearer better protection in case of an accident. The best jackets are made of a combination of materials, such as synthetic leather, waterproof textile materials, and a hard plastic inner layer. You should wear a helmet when skiing, as safety regulations require it. Most helmets are built with a hard plastic outer shell, a cushioned interior, and a snug fit for additional protection. When you are not in the woods, hiking, or climbing, you can remove the helmet and enjoy the fresh air on your skin.
If you follow these helpful tips, you will keep your brain safely intact, preventing a lot of the long-term injuries that accompany a core shot. In case of an accident, make sure that you are wearing the proper protective gear, and seek medical help as soon as you can. This article hopefully gave you a better understanding of this dangerous yet amazing sport. Feel free to leave a comment below if you have any other interesting tidbits about skiing.