A study on the prevalence of low back pain in ski instructors (interesting because they spend more hours skiing than regular users) indicates that they do not have a higher prevalence of low back pain than the general population.
But then why do we say that skiing is a sport potentially harmful to the spine?
During skiing, the trunk performs several coordinated movements in all three directions:
Biomechanically, the pressure on the intervertebral discs increases during these movements compared to when we are standing still. Therefore, it is reasonable to assume that when performed in combination, the pressure on the disc or the overload it receives is even greater.
These repetitive movements or overexertion (for example, during the last hours of the day) are the basis for injuries that can occur during the practice of this sport.
The most critical moment for the spine, and when it receives the most overload, is during turns. Contrary to what one might think, in golf, spinal torsion is greater during the swing than during a ski turn.
An interesting fact is that the type of sports equipment (short or long skis) does not influence the skier’s back.
The core muscles control trunk movements, so prior to the ski season, it is recommended to add specific core training to your regular exercise routine.
Sporri, J.; Kroll, J.; Haid, C.; Fasel, B.; Muller, E. (2015). Potential Mechanisms Leading to Overuse Injuries of the Back in Alpine Ski Racing: A Descriptive Biomechanical Study. The American Journal of Sports Medicine, 43(8), 2042–2048. doi:10.1177/0363546515588178
