Citation

Russell KW, Imray CH, McIntosh SE, Anderson R, Galbraith D, Hudson ST, Cochran AL. Wilderness Environ. Med. 2013; 24(2): 136-140.

Affiliation

Department of Surgery, University of Utah Health Sciences Center, Salt Lake City, UT. Electronic address: Katie.Russell@hsc.utah.edu.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2013, Elsevier Publishing)

DOI

10.1016/j.wem.2012.11.013

PMID

23473792

Abstract

Frostbite is a well-known occurrence in outdoor winter activity and exploration. We report the first documented case of frostbite associated with kite skiing. Kite skiing is an emerging sport that uses a kite to harness wind power for recreation and to travel long distances on skis. Certain characteristics of this sport may predispose athletes to frostbite injury. The stance required to resist and redirect the force created by the wind and kite puts constant pressure and repetitive trauma on the downwind great toe. This can compromise blood flow and increase risk of cold injury. Future kite skier expeditions should focus on specific prevention methods including properly fitting boots, adequate boot insulation, and frequent rest periods to inspect and warm toes.

Language: en