Figure skaters suffer both overuse and traumatic injuries. About half of all injuries are caused by overuse and are preventable. Singles skaters have a higher incidence of overuse injuries, while pair skaters and ice dancers are more prone to traumatic injuries.

Common Overuse Injuries

• Stress fractures, most commonly to the foot or spine
• Stress reactions, such as shin splints and medial tibial stress syndrome
• Tendonitis – Achilles, patellar, or peroneal
• Muscle strains of the hip

Overtraining and Poor Technique

Impact at landing generates deceleration forces measuring up to 100 Gs in adolescent skaters. This phenomenal force is transmitted throughout the lower extremity contacting the ice and axial skeleton and is the main contributor to the host of injuries sustained in figure skating.

Equipment

Boot stiffness: A stiff skating boot is similar to a cast. The stiffer the boot, the more limited the motion at the ankle and thus the knee, hip, and back.

• Reduce exposure to high—G—force landings by limiting the repetition of jumps—especially poorly mastered or new jumps—per training session.
• Increase proficiency with new jumps through off-ice training, use of a harness, and ensuring a proper conception of perfect form prior to on-ice repetitions.
• Avoid learning new elements during growth spurts, as this causes increased stress on the body.
• Warm up for 5-10 minutes prior to putting on skates and stepping on the ice.
• Properly fit and break in boots; adjust skate blades and sharpen appropriately.