Wintry weather increases risk of serious orthopaedic injuries

Winter brings plenty of opportunities for having fun and capturing beautiful photos, but the season also presents several risks for orthopaedic injuries, which affect the musculoskeletal system. These injuries become increasingly common during this time of year as people walk on slippery surfaces or shovel snow. Injuries can range from a mild ankle sprain to a broken wrist, or even rise to emergency level if the back or neck are damaged. 

If you suffer a sprain, orthopaedic specialist Alexa Bartley, PA-C, from GBMC Health Partners Orthopaedics, recommends icing and elevating the affected area, as well as resting and using over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications to ease the pain. Braces can also help stabilize an injured joint, allowing patients to use the affected limb minimally as they heal. However, sometimes these strategies aren’t enough to alleviate symptoms or treat the injury completely, which is when more aggressive methods need to be used.

It is always a good idea to verify with a specialist whether the damage will likely heal with at-home care or needs more intensive care. Injuries not treated promptly or correctly could lead to more complications later in life, such as structural damage to the affected area or injuries to other parts of the body due to compensation for the injured limb.

Surgery is sometimes necessary to treat serious orthopaedic injuries. Bartley said falls happen frequently during winter, leading to hip fractures that require surgical intervention for patients to regain their mobility. Age increases the risk and impact of injury because, as Bartley explained, a condition called osteoporosis can develop, which slows new bone regeneration and leaves older bones more brittle and vulnerable to breaking.

If surgery is recommended, the road to recovery can be arduous.

“The goal is to stabilize the bone and promote proper healing, often using hardware such as screws, rods, or plates. In some cases, particularly with hip fractures, a hip replacement may be recommended,” Bartley said. “While the majority of healing occurs in the first 2–3 months, it can take a full year to recover after a fracture. Your surgeon will provide a personalized plan to guide your recovery.”

To avoid extensive medical intervention, preventing injury in the first place is always the best option. Bartley advises:

• Being cautious during inclement weather
• Ensuring walkways and stairs are well-lit and clear of ice
• Removing tripping hazards, such as loose rugs or cords
• Using mobility aids like canes or walkers for additional support if someone is at increased risk of falling

Bartley urges everyone to stay safe this winter and to seek professional help with injuries when necessary.

“GBMC’s Orthopaedics team is dedicated to providing high-quality, patient-centered care with a focus on timely access. [The] goal is to help you recover quickly and safely so that you can return to your normal activities as soon as possible,” Bartley said.

If you need immediate treatment for an injury, visit the Walk-In Orthopaedic Clinic at GBMC Health Partners Primary Care Padonia, 63 E. Padonia Rd., Suite 100, Lutherville-Timonium, MD 21093. No appointment needed!

Clinic hours of operation are:

• Monday-Friday, 7:30 a.m. - 4 p.m. (last patient seen at 2:30 p.m.)
• Saturdays, 8 a.m. - 12 p.m. (last patient seen at 11:30 a.m.)