If you’re a snow skier entering your first winter after limb loss, you may be wondering if you’ll ever be able to enjoy skiing again. BioTech has good news – snow skiing with a prosthesis is totally possible! Read on for tips to get back on the slopes.

Outriggers

These devices resemble ski poles and are used to maintain stability as you wind down the mountain. At the end of the poles are mini-skis, which allow you to put one down if you lose your balance without disrupting your groove!

Some above and below knee amputees choose not to wear a prosthesis while skiing, opting to use outriggers while skiing only on their sound leg. This is called the “three track method.”

Types of Prostheses for Snow Skiing

There are some great options for amputees looking to enjoy snow skiing with a prosthesis. In fact, these devices can be used for other sports that involve similar motions, too, like wakeboarding and waterskiing. Knee disarticulation and above knee amputees would likely want a foot and knee combination, while below knee amputees can use a simple foot component. This can be attached directly to the ski binding, or it can be combined with a foot shell that is shaped for snowboard boots.

If you’d rather eliminate the need for a ski boot altogether, some foot prostheses made specifically for skiing can be inserted directly into the ski binding. This allows you to skip the boot and can be configured to fit just about any binding you’ve got.

Finally, if you’re really serious about snow skiing with a prosthesis, there is the option to have an entire leg prosthesis made specifically for hitting the slopes! These devices can incorporate a foot that is already tilted at the proper angle for a boot, better hip control and suspension, and an elastic fork strap that goes down over the knee joint and limits the amount that it will flex – a must when you are skiing downhill! This strap can easily be disconnected when walking so that you can bend the joint properly.

Questions about Snow Skiing with a Prosthesis?

Whatever your question, BioTech is here with the answer! We specialize in helping our patients recognize their possibilities and live a full, happy life. If you’ve got questions or concerns about snow skiing with a prosthesis – or anything else! – don’t hesitate to contact us today. We are always ready to help!