Winter conditions can make everyday activities hazardous – from your driveway to the parking lot at work. A slip on the ice can seem harmless at first, just a bump, bruise, or sore muscle. But not all fall injuries are minor, especially when you find yourself unable to stand or walk comfortably. If your fall injury leaves you not weight-bearing, it could be a sign of a more serious musculoskeletal issue.
Knowing the difference between a temporary ache and a true orthopedic injury can help you take the right next step toward recovery.
Common Ice-Related Injuries
During winter, orthopedic clinics see a rise in injuries caused by slips and falls on icy surfaces. Some of the most common include:
- Ankle sprains or fractures
- Hip fractures, especially in older adults
- Wrist fractures from bracing against a fall
- Knee injuries, including ligament strains or tears
- Tailbone and lower back injuries
While many of these injuries cause immediate pain, others may not show symptoms right away. Swelling, bruising, stiffness, or difficulty moving a joint can take hours—or even days—to fully appear.
A Red Flag: Can’t Put Weight on It?
One of the clearest signs that your injury needs medical attention is the inability to bear weight on the affected limb. If you can’t stand, walk, or shift pressure onto a leg, ankle, or foot without significant pain, don’t wait. That’s often an indication of a bone fracture, ligament tear, or serious joint injury that needs professional evaluation.
Ignoring a weight-bearing issue can make recovery harder and lead to long-term complications, including chronic pain or joint instability.
When to Seek Orthopedic Care
If your pain worsens with movement, you’re unable to bear weight, or swelling and bruising are increasing, visit an orthopedic walk-in clinic. Unlike urgent care or ER facilities, orthopedic specialists at OSMC focus solely on bones, joints, and musculoskeletal injuries. You’ll get targeted care from the right provider, right away.
Our team offers on-site X-rays, casting or bracing, and treatment plans built specifically for fall injuries. No referral needed, no appointment required.
Don’t Brush Off a Serious Injury
In winter, it’s easy to assume your fall was “just a bruise.” But when you can’t put weight on your leg or foot, or if pain continues after a few days, it’s time to get checked out. Fast treatment reduces your risk of complications and helps you return to your normal routine safely.
Get Evaluated Today
At OSMC, we’re here to help you navigate winter injuries with confidence. Our orthopedic walk-in clinic is open and ready to evaluate your slip or fall injury, especially if you’re struggling to bear weight or move comfortably.
Don’t wait it out. If your injury is more than a bruise, get the expert care you need.
Get evaluated today at OSMC or use the 24/7 orthopedic evaluation HURT! App.
