title: Kite skier's toe: an unusual case of frostbite.
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.
authors.affiliation: Department of Surgery, University of Utah Health Sciences Center, Salt Lake City, UT 84123, USA. Katie.Russell@hsc.utah.edu
authors.forename: Katie White
authors.initials: KW
authors.lastname: Russell
authors.forename: Chris H
authors.initials: CH
authors.lastname: Imray
authors.forename: Scott E
authors.initials: SE
authors.lastname: McIntosh
authors.forename: Rachel
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Anderson
authors.forename: Deirdre
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Galbraith
authors.forename: Sean T
authors.initials: ST
authors.lastname: Hudson
authors.forename: Amalia L
authors.initials: AL
authors.lastname: Cochran
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D000864:Antarctic Regions; D003080:Cold Temperature / Q000009:adverse effects*; D004781:Environmental Exposure / Q000009:adverse effects*; D005627:Frostbite / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000517:prevention & control; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D012865:Skiing; D014034:Toes / Q000098:blood supply / Q000293:injuries / Q000473:pathology