Winter is a great time for skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, and even cold-weather running—but these activities come with an increased risk of sprains, strains, and fractures. Slippery conditions, cold muscles, and high-impact sports make injuries more common. At Innovative Urgent Care, we treat a variety of sports-related injuries and offer on-site X-ray services to diagnose fractures quickly so you can get back to your favorite activities safely.
Common Winter Sports Injuries
1. Sprains (Injured Ligaments)
– What happens? A ligament (which connects bones to each other) is stretched or torn.
– Most common areas: Ankles, wrists, and knees (common in skiing, snowboarding, and ice skating).
– Symptoms:
✔ Pain, swelling, and bruising
✔ Difficulty using the joint
✔ Instability (feels like it might “give out”)
– Treatment:
✔ R.I.C.E. Method: Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation
✔ Brace or wrap for support
✔ If severe, an X-ray is needed to rule out a fracture
2. Strains (Muscle or Tendon Injuries)
– What happens? A muscle or tendon (which connects muscle to bone) is overstretched or torn.
– Most common areas: Lower back, hamstrings, shoulders (common in snowboarding, ice hockey, and winter running).- Symptoms:
✔ Muscle pain and stiffness
✔ Weakness in the affected area
✔ Swelling or bruising
– Treatment:
✔ Rest and gentle stretching
✔ Heat therapy to relax tight muscles
✔ Pain relievers (ibuprofen or acetaminophen) for discomfort
3. Fractures (Broken Bones)
– What happens? A bone breaks due to trauma, such as a fall on ice or a hard impact in a sport.
– Most common fractures: Wrists, arms, collarbones, ankles (common in skiing, snowboarding, and slipping on ice).
– Symptoms:
✔ Severe pain and swelling
✔ Inability to move the limb normally
✔ Deformity or bruising around the injury
✔ Hearing a crack at the moment of injury
– When to Seek Urgent Care:
✔ If there is severe pain, swelling, or inability to bear weight
✔ If the area is visibly deformed
✔ If numbness or tingling occurs
On-Site X-Ray for Quick Diagnosis
At Innovative Urgent Care, we offer on-site X-ray services so we can diagnose fractures immediately. This means:
✅ Faster diagnosis without needing a hospital visit
✅ Clear treatment plans (splinting, casting, or referral if surgery is needed)
✅ Immediate pain relief so you can start healing ASAP
How to Prevent Winter Sports Injuries
Wear the Right Gear – Supportive footwear, braces, and padding can prevent many injuries.
Warm Up First – Stretch and get blood flowing before heading out in the cold.
Know Your Limits – Don’t push yourself too hard on the slopes or ice.
Avoid Icy Surfaces – Be mindful of ice patches when running or walking outdoors.
Get Treated Early – Minor injuries can worsen if ignored, so seek care when needed.
When to Visit Urgent Care vs. the ER
Visit Innovative Urgent Care if you have:
✔ A sprain, strain, or mild to moderate fracture
✔ Swelling, bruising, or limited mobility
✔ A possible fracture that needs an X-ray
✔ Sports injuries that aren’t life-threatening but need treatment
Go to the ER if:
⚠️ The bone is sticking out of the skin
⚠️ You can’t feel or move the injured area
⚠️ There is severe bleeding or a head injury
At Innovative Urgent Care, we’re here to help with quick, expert treatment for sports injuries. Whether it’s a sprained ankle, a strained back, or a possible fracture, walk in or book a telemedicine visit today!
For more on preventing and treating sports injuries, visit the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons’ guide:
https://www.aaos.org/aaos-home/newsroom/press-releases/9-tips-to-prevent-sports-injuries-for-everyday-exercisers/
Stay active and stay safe this winter!
