On thin ice: preparing and caring for the ice skater during competition.

The competitive sport of figure skating has changed in many ways over the last few decades with the advent of increasingly difficult programs, the additions of new disciplines within the sport, and changes to the types of injuries seen. With increased numbers of participants, there is more need for medical coverage at many skating events throughout the country. The sports medicine physician responsible for the care of skaters at a competition will need a working knowledge of the basics of skating and the injuries these athletes sustain in order to provide exceptional care to the skaters. This article reviews the basics of figure skating along with the common injuries and medical conditions often experienced by figure skaters to allow a physician to feel comfortable dealing with potential rinkside emergencies and issues. It also provides guidance on the preparation required to provide medical coverage at an ice skating competition.