Winter is a fun time of year with snow, ice, and winter sports—but it also brings a higher risk of injuries, especially to your hands, wrists, knees, and ankles. At our clinic, we treat these injuries every winter. Knowing what injuries are common, how they’re treated, and how to prevent them can help you stay safe and active.
Common Winter Injuries
Slips and Falls
Ice and snow are slippery. Falling can lead to:
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- Wrist or hand fractures from catching yourself
- Ankle or knee sprains
- Bruises and strains
Sprains and Strains
Activities like shoveling snow, carrying heavy winter gear, or slipping on ice can stretch or tear ligaments and muscles in the hands, wrists, ankles, and knees.
Winter Sports Injuries
Skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, and sledding are exciting but risky. Common injuries include:
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- Wrist and hand fractures from falls
- Knee ligament injuries
- Ankle sprains
- Muscle strains
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Cold-Related Injuries
Frostbite or cold-induced joint stiffness can occur if hands or feet are exposed for too long without proper protection. This can worsen arthritis or existing joint problems.
How We Treat Winter Injuries
At Michigan Surgery Specialists, treatment depends on the type and severity of your injury:
Hand and Wrist Injuries
- Fractures: May require splints, casts, or sometimes surgery
- Sprains or strains: Treated with rest, splints, exercises, and hand therapy
- Tendon or ligament injuries: Can be treated with therapy or surgery if severe
Lower Body Injuries
- Ankle and knee sprains: Rest, ice, compression, elevation (RICE), braces, and physical therapy
- Fractures: Casts, surgery, and rehabilitation exercises
- Muscle strains: Physical therapy, gentle stretching, and strengthening exercises
Therapy and Rehabilitation
The occupational therapists and physical therapists at our sister company, Motus Rehabilitation, help you:
- Restore strength and mobility
- Reduce pain and swelling
- Learn safe ways to move and return to daily activities
- Use supportive devices like braces or adaptive equipment
How to Prevent Winter Injuries
For Hands and Wrists
- Wear insulated, waterproof gloves
- Use wrist guards when snowboarding or skating
- Avoid catching yourself with outstretched hands on icy surfaces
For Legs, Knees, and Ankles
- Wear boots with good traction
- Take small steps on icy sidewalks
- Stretch and warm up before shoveling or playing winter sports
- Use supportive braces if you have weak joints
General Safety Tips
- Keep walkways clear and salted
- Take breaks when doing strenuous winter activities
- Stay inside during dangerous weather conditions
- Practice proper lifting techniques when carrying heavy objects
- If you’re over the age of 65, consider having a bone scan to assess bone density and fracture risk. Visit our Bone Health Clinic to learn more!
When to Seek Care
See a hand or orthopedic specialist if you experience:
- Persistent pain or swelling
- Difficulty moving your hands, wrists, knees, or ankles
- Deformity or unusual bumps after a fall
- Trouble performing daily tasks