(Photo credit: lusi/RGBstock.com)
All Formula One fans are waiting and hoping that seven-time world champion Michael Schumacher will make a swift and full recovery from a serious head injury.
On December 29, racer Schumacher was on a family skiing vacation in the French Alps, when he fell and his head hit a rock, while wearing his helmet. Since his accident, Schumacher was placed in a medically induced coma to reduce the swelling in the brain and to help him heal while neurosurgeons conducted two surgeries. His body’s temperature has been dropped to about 34 and 35 C (the average normal body temperature is 37 C) to reduce energy consumption.
His prognosis improved to stable and critical condition from critical condition, but he remains under constant surveillance. Trauma surgeon Gerard Saillant who operated on Schumacher when he had a broken leg from a car crash, told reporters that his age and fitness should work in his favour. While the helmet improved Schumacher’s chances of survival, according to Dr. Jean-Francois Payen, the doctor in charge of Grenoble University Hospital’s ICU, it’s unclear whether Schumacher, a seven-time Formula One world champion, will fully recover.
Details of the incident continue to be investigated, but claims from a witness says that the recently turned 45-year-old wasn’t travelling very fast with a maximum speed of about 20 kilometres per hour. Footage from Schumacher’s head camera shows the F1 racer skiing off the ski trail, where he lost his balance and hit his head. Schumacher’s manager, Sabine Kehm, also confirmed to the press that the helmet cracked upon impact.
Schumacher’s unfortunate accident highlights another issue that current helmets may not sufficiently prevent serious head injuries on ski slopes and halfpipes. While 70 per cent of skiers and snowboarders in the U.S. wear helmets, which is triple the number of wearers more than a decade ago, there hasn’t been a decrease in the number of snow-sport fatalities or brain injuries, says the National Ski Areas Association. Head injuries among skiers and snowboarders has increased 60 per cent to 14,947 in 2010 from 9,308 in 2004, according to a study conducted by the Western Michigan University School of Medicine. This has been attributed to more skiers and snowboarders taking more risks such as skiing at faster speeds or jumping to higher heights.
And while helmet use has decreased less serious head injuries to 50 per cent, says experts, unfortunately they aren’t providing enough protection for serious injuries, such as concussions or traumatic brain injury.
Former Canadian Olympic downhill skier Dave Irwin shared his experience with his ongoing recovery from an acquired brain injury that he suffered in 2001 in Banff, Alta. Irwin, who was nicknamed the Crazy Canuck for his daredevil approach, suffered previous severe concussions, which he told CTV that the harm from his previous injuries compounded. Lynne Harrison, Irwin’s wife, rehabilitation included severe memory loss, relearning English and coordination. A decade later, Irwin can now talk, but he still has issues holding multiple conversations at once and he continues to experience short-term memory loss. He told CTV that he thinks the safety of ski helmets could be improved.
With winter being a popular time to hit the slopes, it’s important that any skiers or snowboarders wear their helmets to curb head or spinal injuries. Any person on the slopes should be aware of their abilities and don’t attempt a run if you’re tired or injured. It’s also important to stay focused while on the slopes and keep a safe distance between you and other skiers or snowboarders. Don’t forget to keep hydrated and have a snack or light meal before hitting the slopes. Also, if you have your own equipment, ensure that it’s well maintained.
If you have suffered a brain or spinal injury, your life might have significantly changed. Neinstein Personal Injury Lawyers are here for you and have been handling all types of injuries for over 40 years. We understand the impacts they can have on you and we can help fight your case. Call us at 416-920-4242. Set up a free consultation and come chat with us.
Greg Neinstein
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