Winter has returned to Minnesota this week. Light snow, cold temperatures, and cloudy skies have made roads and sidewalks slippery. Even though the snow looks calm and peaceful, it can hide ice that makes everyday tasks harder and more dangerous.
In a recent CBS Minnesota news story, Summit Orthopedics physician Dr. Michael Anderson explained how people get hurt not only while skiing or snowboarding but also while doing simple daily activities. Many winter injuries happen when people are walking to their car, bringing in groceries, or taking their dog outside.
How This Week’s Weather Creates Slippery Spots
With temperatures in the teens, snow and ice are sticking to the ground. When snow falls on top of older ice, it can hide the danger underneath. A driveway, sidewalk, or parking lot may look safe, but a thin layer of ice can make your foot slide out from under you very quickly.
Snow that melts during the day and freezes again at night also creates new icy patches in places you might not expect — like store entrances, garage floors, and steps. Because these spots blend in with the winter scenery, people often don’t recognize the hazard until until it is too late.
Common Injuries We See During Early Winter
These slips and sudden movements can injure many different parts of the body. Summit Orthopedics often sees:
- Wrist injuries when people reach out to catch themselves
- Shoulder pain or dislocations
- Knee or hip injuries from twisting
- Back strain from sudden slipping or from shoveling
- Foot and ankle injuries from uneven icy ground
Many of these injuries happen during simple moments, not during sports or big activities.
Simple Winter Moments That Carry More Risk
The news story explained that one of the most common times people fall is when they step out of their car. When one foot lands on a hidden icy patch, the body can tilt or twist in a way that causes injury. Even walking a short distance, such as to the mailbox or trash bin, can be risky when ice is hiding under the snow.
Carrying bags, holding children, or walking pets can make balance harder. Snow that gets tracked inside can also make floors slippery, which creates risk before you even step outdoors.
What To Do If You Slip or Feel Pain
Sometimes people slip and think they are fine, but pain or swelling shows up later. This is common, but it should not be ignored. A fall, even a small one, can cause a sprain, strain, or even a fracture.
If you have trouble walking, notice swelling, or feel pain that does not go away, it is important to get checked by an orthopedic specialist.
Staying Safe During Minnesota’s First Real Winter Week
Winter weather will be with us for months, so this is a good time to slow down and be careful. Wearing boots with good traction, taking smaller steps, and using handrails can help prevent falls. When getting out of your car, place both feet firmly before standing up so you have better balance.
If an injury does happen, Summit Orthopedics Urgent Care clinics are open seven days a week across the greater Twin Cities metropolitan area and Western Wisconsin. Our specialists can help you heal quickly and safely so you can get back to your normal routine.
Watch the Full CBS Minnesota TV Segment
Learn more from Dr. Anderson’s interview here:
👉 CBS Minnesota – Fresh snow brings more winter injuries
