Lindsey Vonn Recovering With New Non-Opioid Pain Treatment

When Olympic skiing icon Lindsey Vonn crashed during the downhill race at the Milano Cortina Olympics last February, many assumed her comeback story was over for good. But eight months later, she's healing thanks to a new pain treatment that's changing her recovery journey.

Dr. Tom Hackett, Vonn's surgeon and chief medical officer for U.S. Ski & Snowboard, watched the crash unfold in real time. "That was devastating to see that happen," he said, recalling the moment his years of emergency planning kicked into gear.

The injury came with excruciating pain. While in Italy, the medical team relied on heavy opioid use to manage Vonn's suffering, but Hackett knew there had to be a better path forward once they returned home.

That's when they turned to JOURNAVX, a relatively new non-opioid medication for moderate to severe acute pain. The drug works by blocking pain signals before they reach the brain, which means it doesn't affect mental function or carry the dangerous side effects of opioids.

"We talked about risks and benefits, and the risk profile is extremely low," Hackett explained. The medication has worked so well that Vonn's recovery has advanced far beyond initial expectations.

While Vonn hasn't announced whether she'll compete this season, she made the 2026-27 Stifel US Alpine Ski Team roster. She's been sharing recovery updates on Instagram, keeping her options open about what comes next.

Why This Inspires

Vonn's recovery represents more than just one athlete's comeback. Her willingness to try innovative pain management shows how new treatments can offer hope to millions struggling with severe pain who want to avoid opioid dependency. At a time when the opioid crisis continues to devastate communities, having effective alternatives matters more than ever.

Hackett praised Vonn's approach to both skiing and recovery. "She always had that cutting-edge, don't-hold-back, take-no-prisoners approach," he said, noting her extraordinary work ethic and commitment to excellence.

Whether Vonn returns to World Cup racing remains an open question, but her team needs her regardless. And if history has taught us anything, it's never to count Lindsey Vonn out.