Getting Ski Trip Ready with your FSA
As the last few weeks of winter are among us, you're probably thinking of making a trip to a nearby ski resort before the snow melts. Whether you're planning on making it a day trip or a weekend excursion with the family, it never hurts to be extra prepared. Aside from dressing warm and layering extensively, be prepared to handle anything from getting sick to soreness and bruising from falls and potential accidents.
If you typically have a bad knee, don't let that stop you from having fun out there on the slopes. Bring along some KT Tape to support your joints and get you through harsh cold conditions. KT Tape are adhesives that will help to provide strength and support as you go about your activities.
Knee and back braces supports are great at preventing injuries, as well as stabilizing areas post-injury so they can heal more effectively. Knee braces are particularly important for skiers and snowboarders, as these joints see an inordinate amount of strain and can be the first areas that can be injured in an accident, so if you have a history of joint issues, additional reinforcement from a brace is a good idea for your ski outing!
Treat all sorts of bruises and pain points after a long day of skiing with a hot or cold pack that's FSA eligible. To treat swelling and pain, apply ice for about 15 minutes at a time, then put the cold pack on your skin for 15 minute intervals as well. If possible, make sure to elevate the injured area to promote improved blood flow and overall healing.
Injuries aren't the only thing to watch for out on the slopes. Keep your skin protected in the dry and often windy mountains. Moisturizing before and after spending a whole day out in the cold is important to keep your skin healthy and to prevent it from cracking and causing pain. If you have a medical condition, you can even use your FSA for prescribed moisturizing products like those used for eczema relief.
While it may not feel like it in the midst of freezing temperatures, the sun's rays are still just as dangerous during the winter as they are during the summer months. UVA and UVB rays are still a factor even on cloudy days, so make sure you protect your skin before you hit the slopes. Mineral sunscreen is the best choice for skiing, as it stays active after being exposed to snow and sweat and provides broad spectrum protection from UVA/UVB rays. Also remember that sunscreen SPF 15+ lip balms are FSA eligible, too.
For everything you need to keep your family healthy this winter, shop at FSAstore.com! We have the web's largest selection of FSA eligible items to keep your family healthy year-round and maximize the potential of your employee benefits!