Common Winter Weather Injuries
From winter sports to sidewalk strolls, activities during the winter may sometimes lead to injuries. The doctors at The Center for Podiatric Care and Sports Medicine want you to avoid an unplanned winter visit. Common winter weather injuries include ankle sprains and ankle fractures. Our team of podiatrists shares more about the injuries and how to avoid them.
Sprains
Ankle sprains are common injuries that we see among our patients. For immediate treatment, we recommend the RICE method. Rest, apply ice, use compression, and elevate your ankle. It is important to begin the RICE method as soon as possible. If you notice swelling or increased pain, visit your podiatrist as soon as possible.
Prevention: To avoid an ankle sprain, commit to stretching before and after exercises. This includes preparing for a short winter walk around the neighborhood. Another tip: wear shoes that have proper ankle support. Your shoes should help to protect your ankles.
Fractures
A fracture is a broken bone. When patients have an ankle fracture, their injuries can vary in severity. Regardless, never attempt treatment at home. If you think you have a broken bone, contact your podiatrist immediately. This type of injury can become very painful and can worsen without medical attention. Categories include a stress fracture to a compound fracture, which is more severe. A compound fracture occurs when the bone breaks through the skin.
Prevention: Choose the right shoes for your winter sport. If you’re wearing the wrong shoes for a basketball game, you may not have the support that your ankles need. When you dunk, you could land and do even more damage.
We’re here to help you avoid injuries this winter. At The Center for Podiatric Care and Sports Medicine, Dr. Jonathan Levy, Dr. Nadia Levy, Dr. Diane Castro, Dr. Josef Geldwert, Dr. Katherine Lai, and Dr. Vera Malezhik treat a variety of conditions such as sports injuries, ankle pain, diabetic wounds, heel pain, ingrown toenails, plantar warts, and neuromas. Equipped with state-of-the-art technology, we offer cutting-edge care for patients in Midtown East and Manhattan. Contact our office at (212) 980-6487. Our office is at 120 E 56th Street, Suite 1150, New York, NY 10022. We continue to offer telemedicine appointments.
