Exercise in the Cold

Abstract

Context:Hypothermia and frostbite injuries occur in cold weather activities and sporting events.Evidence Acquisition:A PubMed search was used to identify original research and review articles related to cold, frostbite, and hypothermia. Inclusion was based on their relevance to prevention and treatment of cold-related injuries in sports and outdoor activities. Dates of review articles were limited to those published after 2010. No date limit was set for the most recent consensus statements or original research.Study Design:Clinical review.Level of Evidence:Level 5.Results:Frostbite and hypothermia are well-documented entities with good prevention strategies and prehospital treatment recommendations that have changed very little with time. A layered approach to clothing is the best way to prevent injury and respond to weather changes. Each athlete, defined as a participant in a cold weather sport or activity, will respond to cold differently depending on anthropometric measurements and underlying medical risk factors. An understanding of wind-chill temperatures, wetness, and the weather forecast allows athletes and event coordinators to properly respond to changing weather conditions. At the first sign of a freezing cold injury, ensure warm, dry clothes and move to a protected environment.Conclusion:Cold injuries can be prevented, and cold weather activities are safe with proper education, preparation, and response to changing weather conditions or injury.

Cuscuta reflexaRoxb. Expedites the Healing Process in Contact Frostbite

“…Frostbite is a common occurrence in colder zones of the globe experienced by the local population, sportsmen, and tourists. It usually occurs when skin temperature drops below -0.5°C [ 37 ]. With the rise in snowstorms, avalanches, growing tourism, climate change, and increase in global sporting activities, the frostbite events are naturally on the rise.…”

Beyond “Snow Shoveler's Infarction”: Broadening perspectives on winter health risks

“…Frostbite injuries span from minor, localized freezing to limb amputation with the injury severity dependent upon temperature, duration of exposure, and the extent of frozen tissue (Fudge, Bennett, Simanis, & Roberts, 2015;Hallam, Cubison, Dheansa, & Imray, 2010;Imray et al, 2009;Murphy, Banwell, Roberts, & McGrouther, 2000). The compounding effects of wind chill and moisture can further exacerbate cold-induced injuries (Cappaert et al, 2008;Castellani et al, 2006;Fudge, 2016;Zafren, 2013).…”

“…Age is a significant risk factor for cold-related injuries given that the elderly and small children are more physiologically susceptible (Castellani et al, 2006;Fudge, 2016;Valnicek, Chasmar, & Clapson, 1993). Between 1999 and 2002, 49% of all U.S. hypothermia fatalities were in those aged ≥65 years (CDC, 2006).…”

Nutrition-Related Adverse Outcomes in Endurance Sports Competitions: A Review of Incidence and Practical Recommendations

“…Therefore, the thermic energy associated to the mechanical work caused by muscle contractions increase body temperature and considering that a higher environmental temperature than skin temperature difficult dissipate the thermic energy produced, exercise in hot conditions can provoke stress heat stroke (EHS) [16], an adverse outcome with important consequences, being a potentially dangerous condition for the athletes and one of the first three causes of sudden death in sports [17]. At the opposite, another potentially dangerous weather condition is the cold, together with competitions in a low-temperature aquatic environment, since athletes are exposed to frostbite and hypothermia (HT) [18]. Nevertheless, these situations can be minimized by nutrition.…”