Even though the snowfall at many ski resorts has been less than optimal, many people have expensive skiing vacations planned and should take steps to make sure that they enjoy their skiing vacation and do not get injured. 

Overall, ski injuries have decreased 50% over the past 20 years. Ankle injuries have seen a dramatic decrease; however, knee ligament injuries have doubled in that time period. Equipment advances have been a major reason for the decrease in injuries. The ski boot is held onto the ski by ski bindings. Advanced skiers prefer tighter bindings so that they are able to make sharp turns without the skis breaking away. However, when the bindings are not able to break away from ski boots (in the event of a fall) then the ski will act as a large lever putting increased force on the knee. Beginning skiers should have their bindings set loose, as falling is an inevitable part of learning to ski. As many as 70% of ski injuries are thought to be the result of the ski bindings not releasing in time. 

There are a number of steps that you can take to prevent an injury while you are out on the slopes. First, you should have your bindings professionally tested at the beginning of each ski season. When the skis have been sitting in a closet for the past 10 months, this mechanical devise may change. Therefore, the skis need to be checked prior to hitting the slopes. Also, purchasing skis is advisable over renting. If you do rent equipment, try to do it locally at a ski shop with a good reputation. A manual test of the bindings is advised. Stand in your skis and try to get out of the bindings by simulating a fall. This will give you an idea of how much force is required to release the bindings. 

Another risk factor for ski injuries is related to the experience of the skier. A beginner is 6 times more likely to suffer an injury than someone who has skied for 4 or more seasons. One way to reduce injuries to beginners is to take skiing lessons. Instructors will usually teach the beginner the art of falling to reduce injury. Children who are beginning to ski should wear helmets and many ski schools require them. 

Any exercise that increases your pulse rate and cardiovascular output will help you prepare for a ski vacation. In-line skating or roller blading is an excellent way to prepare for skiing. The balance required in these activities utilizes the same technique as skiing. Other good training activities include cycling, running, StairMaster and treadmills. Some ski shops also have simulated slopes. This is an excellent way test your equipment and your own conditioning prior to hitting the slopes. If you have had a previous injury, it is a good idea to obtain a brace to wear while skiing. See your physician for a good prescription brace. Some insurance companies will pay for this and it could help prevent a visit to the operating room after your skiing vacation. 

The most important way to avoid an injury is to use good common sense. As with any exercise, begin the activity with stretching exercises. It is also a good idea to only ski for only 3-4 hours on your first day and then increase by 1 hour per day. Allow your body time to adjust to the increased altitude and the increased demands of skiing every day. 

Finally, "to thine own self be true." If you are a novice, you do not belong on the intermediate or expert slopes. Ski injuries usually occur on the last run of the day. This is when the athlete is most fatigued and can not respond as quickly as they could earlier during the day. 

If you do suffer a knee ligament injury, studies have shown that it is best to wait at least 3 weeks to give the knee a chance to recover from the initial injury before having reconstructive surgery. Many people wind up with stiff knees from surgery done too soon after the injury.