Winter storms dramatically increase the risk of slip-and-fall injuries, especially in areas with snow, ice, and freezing temperatures. After a storm, one of the most common searches people make is:
- “I slipped and fell on ice — what should I do?”
- “Do I need physical therapy after a fall?”
- “My wrist/shoulder hurts after falling — is it serious?”
Slip-and-fall injuries are not always obvious right away. Many people feel “okay” immediately after the fall, only to experience increasing pain, stiffness, or weakness in the hours or days that follow. This delay often causes people to underestimate the injury and postpone care.
One of the most common mechanisms during winter falls is a FOOSH injury (Fall On Outstretched Hand). FOOSH injuries frequently affect:
- The wrist and hand
- The elbow
- The shoulder
- The neck and upper back
In other cases, the fall may impact the hip, knee, or low back, leading to pain with walking, standing, or daily activities.
Even when X-rays show no fracture, a fall can still cause:
- Ligament sprains or joint instability
- Muscle strains or tendon irritation
- Loss of balance or confidence with movement
- Changes in walking or posture that stress other joints
- Increased risk of future falls during icy conditions
At AdvanPT, physical therapists look beyond the site of pain. A slip-and-fall is a whole-body event, and proper evaluation focuses on restoring movement, balance, and control — not just reducing symptoms.
Early physical therapy after a fall can:
- Identify hidden movement deficits
- Improve balance and reaction time
- Restore joint mobility and strength
- Reduce lingering pain and stiffness
- Lower the risk of repeat falls during winter
Ignoring a fall often leads to chronic pain or repeated injury. Addressing it early helps patients return to confident, safe movement during the rest of the winter season.