Cold Weather Can Cause Broken Bones and Sprains
Ian C. Langtree - Writer/Editor for Disabled World (DW)
Published: 2011/12/24 - Updated: 2021/11/07
Topic: Bones and Joints - Publications List
Page Content: Synopsis - Introduction - Main
Synopsis: Information on how snowy and icy weather conditions can increase the number of sprains and bone fractures from falls. A sprain is defined as an injury in a joint, caused by the ligament being stretched beyond its capacity. A muscular tear caused in the same manner is referred to as a strain.
Introduction
Harsh Winter Forecast: The perfect storm for broken bones - Orthopaedic foot and ankle surgeons offer advice should a break occur...
Main Item
A sprain is defined as an injury in a joint, caused by the ligament being stretched beyond its capacity. A muscular tear caused in the same manner is referred to as a strain. In cases where either ligament or muscle tissue is torn, immobilization and surgical repair may be necessary. Ligaments are tough, fibrous tissues that connect bones to other bones. Sprains can occur in any joint but are most common in the ankle and wrist.
Sprains and Strains: Explains difference between a strain and sprain including symptoms and treatment for each plus list of common muscle sprains and sprains.
With the Farmers' Almanac prediction of an unusually cold and stormy weather forecast this winter orthopaedic foot and ankle surgeons are bracing for a busy season. Unfortunately, snowy and icy weather conditions increase the number of sprains and fractures from falls. According to the American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) if a sprain or fracture is not treated properly, it could lead to long-term foot and ankle problems including chronic pain and instability.
John G. Anderson, MD, an orthopaedic foot and ankle surgeon from Grand Rapids, MI. and the co-chair of the AOFAS Public Education Committee sees his share of broken ankles from falls due to the severe Michigan weather. Should you sustain a foot or ankle injury, Dr. Anderson suggests:
"Don't ignore it. Seek medical attention if there is pain, swelling or bruising, to be sure it isn't something serious. Many minor twists and slips can result in significant bone or ligamentous injury, and often, recovery can be hastened by early diagnosis and intervention."
Since a severe sprain often masks the symptoms of a broken ankle, every injury to the ankle should be examined by a physician. Symptoms of a broken ankle include:
- Swelling
- Bruising
- Deformity
- Tender to the touch
- Immediate and severe pain
- Inability to put any weight on the injured foot
A broken ankle may also involve damage to or tearing of the ligaments of the ankle. An x-ray will determine the exact location of the break. Often a CT (computed tomography) scan or a bone scan may also be required. If the fracture is stable (without damage to the ligament or the mortise joint), it can be treated with a leg cast or brace. It typically takes at least six weeks for a broken ankle to heal. Additional x-rays will be necessary during the healing process to ensure that changes or pressures on the ankle don't cause the bones to shift.
Surgery may be required if the ligaments are torn or if the fracture created a loose fragment of bone that could irritate the joint. The orthopaedic surgeon may use a plate, metal or absorbable screws, staples or tension bands to hold the bones in place. Afterwards the surgeon will prescribe a program of rehabilitation and strengthening exercises.
Author Credentials: Ian was born and grew up in Australia. Since then, he has traveled and lived in numerous locations and currently resides in Montreal, Canada. Ian is the founder, a writer, and editor in chief for Disabled World. Ian believes in the Social Model of Disability, a belief developed by disabled people in the 1970s. The social model changes the focus away from people's impairments and towards removing barriers that disabled people face daily. To learn more about Ian's background, expertise, and achievements, check out his bio.