Chilly, windy, snowy conditions make winter wrist injuries in Northern Virginia far more common. OrthoOIC in Arlington sees an increase in wrist pain and injuries, especially after slips on ice, falls during outdoor activities, or winter sports accidents. Cold weather can stiffen muscles and joints, reducing reaction time and balance. One of the most frequent injuries seen during colder months is a fractured wrist. This common winter wrist injury often occurs when people instinctively brace themselves during a fall. Even low-impact falls on icy sidewalks or driveways can result in significant wrist injuries that require medical attention.
A fractured wrist can result from slipping, falling, or losing balance in winter conditions. When the body falls forward, the wrist absorbs much of the impact, placing sudden force on the bones and ligaments. This can lead to pain, swelling, bruising, and limited movement. In some cases, symptoms may feel mild initially, but swelling and stiffness can worsen over the next 24 to 48 hours if the injury is not evaluated and treated properly.
Signs of a wrist fracture include persistent pain, visible swelling, deformity, numbness, tingling, or difficulty gripping or rotating the hand. Some people may notice increased pain when bearing weight or performing simple tasks such as opening doors or holding objects. Ignoring these symptoms can lead to improper healing, reduced strength, and long-term stiffness. Prompt orthopedic evaluation is improtant to confirm the injury and begin appropriate treatment.
Orthopedic urgent care is an ideal option for winter wrist injuries in Northern Virginia that require immediate attention but are not life-threatening. With on-site imaging and orthopedic specialists, patients in Northern Virginia can receive same-day diagnosis, splinting, bracing, or casting without the long wait times of an emergency room. Early treatment helps relieve pain, reduce swelling, and support proper healing. At OrthoOIC, we make it easy for you to get fast, expert orthopedic urgent care when you need it most. Our team is here to guide you, answer your questions, and help you return to the activities you love. Whether you prefer to walk in or schedule ahead, we are ready when injuries happen.