Headed to the slopes? Mr Mark Frame talks about the new Rapid Access Ski clinic

Mr Mark Frame, Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon sat down with the Spire Southampton to talk about his love for skiing, how to prepare for the ski season, injuries and the new Rapid Access Ski clinic Mr Frame is offering at the Spire Southampton.

What got you into skiing? How do you get into University racing?

I have always been a keen skier, It definitely helped coming from Scotland with mountains (and snow!) on my doorstep. I actually grew up virtually next door to a dry ski slope and spent any free time I had in a pair of ski boots! As soon as I possibly could I grasped the opportunity to do my ski instructor qualifications and spent years teaching from beginners up to race training. I also had the chance to teach those less fortunate and expose them to a sport they might not otherwise have had the opportunity to experience. It was then a natural step to join the Aberdeen University Ski Club in the cold and snowy North East. It was a great club and great to be part of the race team. I have always been competitive, and bashing slalom poles down on a cold and rainy Scottish night never dampened my enjoyment. 

Do you still get a chance to teach skiing with your commitments as an Orthopaedic surgeon?

I kept up regular teaching when I was an orthopaedic trainee in Glasgow, but like anything life became busy and it is not something that I could fit in between shifts. I now have 2 children and my teaching skills are coming in useful to encourage them to enjoy the sport I love. 

Where is your favourite ski destination?

I loved skiing in Scotland. It’s not for the faint-hearted! Skiing in sleet and over heather, but if you can ski in Scotland you can ski anywhere! My favourite place is Tignes in France. The food is also slightly better there!

With the ski season fast approaching what do you do to prepare?

The key thing I do before skiing is making sure I am as physically fit as I can be. Running or cycling to prepare your legs. Stamina is the key. Injuries happen when you get tired and don't concentrate. Keeping your quads in good condition and having the stamina to resist the afternoon burn is vital!

What's the best advice you would give people preparing for the ski season?

Give yourself plenty of time to prepare. Gauge your level and work out what your goals are. Everyone is different and that's where having someone else to guide you through a program is great. 

Is there anything you can do while on holiday or is all the preparation done before you go?

Best thing is to make sure your gear is in top condition and as much as we all like the race skis, make sure your ski gear matches your ability. Have a professional set your bindings so they release correctly if you fall. Last but not least, stop when you’re tired, that one more run might be the worst thing you ever did. Its never to early for apres!

What ski injuries do you commonly see?

The most common injuries are tibial fractures and ACL injuries. Getting diagnosed quickly is important as we can now consider you for ACL repair rather than doing a reconstruction. This is only possible in the first 4-6 weeks.

How common are they? Should we be worried?

These injuries are still rare and you shouldn't worry. Its just good to be aware and maximise your chances of having a great injury free holiday.

What made you want to set up the ski clinic at Spire Southampton?

I felt there was a need to have a rapid means for anyone who has had an injury whilst skiing to get diagnosed and treated as quickly as possible. Being able to book your clinic and MRI whilst still in your chalet in France just puts your mind at rest. The advantage of a quick diagnosis also opens the door for ACL injuries to be possibly treated with a new technique of ACL repair and Arthrex Internal Bracing rather than a traditional ACL reconstruction using your hamstring tendons as a graft. This new ACL repair technique could get you back on your feet quicker and with less pain. This needs to be assessed quickly as the window of opportunity is 4-6 weeks.

Read more about the Rapid Access Ski Clinic or make an enquiry.