Winter brings joy, but also treacherous conditions that increase the risk of falls. Icy sidewalks, snowy roads, and even slippery patches of ice on your own driveway can lead to unexpected mishaps. These accidents often result in a visit to urgent care for sprained wrists or an ankle sprain. Winter activities like shoveling snow, ice skating, and skiing can put extra stress on joints, making them more susceptible to sprains. Cold weather can stiffen muscles and joints, making them less flexible and more prone to injury.
When you fall, the force of the impact can cause your wrist or ankle to twist awkwardly, resulting in a sprain. Sprains occur when the ligaments, which are the tough bands of tissue that connect bones, are stretched or torn. Severe pain, especially with movement, is a common symptom of a sprain. Rapid swelling around the affected area or bruising that appears within a few hours are signs you may need to visit an urgent care for a sprained wrist or ankle. Other signs of sprains are difficulty moving and a feeling of warmth in the injured area. If left untreated, sprains can lead to chronic instability and long-term pain.
If you experience a winter fall, you can seek medical attention at an urgent care for sprained wrists and ankles. Delaying care can worsen the injury by allowing swelling and inflammation to increase. OrthoOIC is an urgent care center specializing in orthopedics. Our team specializes in fractures, sprains and other musculoskeletal injuries. We can help you get back to enjoying the winter season safely and comfortably. You can conveniently schedule an appointment for your sprained wrist or ankle sprain at urgent care. OrthoOIC also welcomes walk-ins for ortho emergency care in Arlington, VA.