Dr. Robert F. LaPrade, orthopedic knee surgeon with The Steadman Clinic in Vail, recently had a one-on-one with Vail Daily reporter John LaConte. During their discussion, which takes place up the side of the mountain in one of Vail’s very own gondolas, Dr. LaPrade discusses common ski injuries that can be sustained on the mountain, especially during heavy snowfalls, and during warmer days when the snow melts which often leads to harder surface on the slopes. According to Dr. LaPrade, who is the Chief Medical Research Officer at the Steadman Philippon Research Institute in Vail, “When it’s really hard snow, people tend to fall down with their wrists out in front of them. Wrist fractures are really common during these conditions.” He also states that ACL knee injuries, MCL and LCL injuries, among others, are also common. Dr. LaPrade states that individuals who work in an office environment should prepare themselves ahead of time before hitting the slopes. This includes conditioning and strengthening so that the body doesn’t tire out on the mountain and become prone for injuries.
About the Author: Robert LaPrade, MD
Robert LaPrade, MD, PhD has specialized skills and expertise in diagnosing and treating complicated knee injuries. He has treated athletes at all levels, including Olympic, professional and intercollegiate athletes, and has returned numerous athletes back to full participation after surgeries. Recognized globally for his outstanding and efficient surgical skills and dedication to sports medicine, he has received many research awards, including the OREF Clinic Research Award considered by many a Nobel Prize in orthopedics. Dr. LaPrade is one of the most published investigators in his field, and many of the surgeries that he has developed are now performed worldwide and recognized as the “gold standard” for the treatment of complex knee injuries.