Hand, Wrist, and Elbow Safety in Winter Weather

Tips to Stay Safe in Harsh Winter Weather

South Louisiana residents are no strangers to the heat, but unseasonable cold and icy conditions can create risks we simply aren't prepared for—especially to the hand, wrist, and elbow. Failing to handle icy sidewalks and frigid temperatures properly can lead to otherwise preventable injuries. Orthopedic hand, wrist, and elbow specialist Dr. Brandon P. Donnelly shares tips to help you stay safe and protect yourself during this rare southern chill.

Common Hand, Wrist, and Elbow Injuries from Falls

Slipping on icy surfaces often triggers a reflex to use your hands to break your fall, a response known as FOOSH ("falling on outstretched hand"). This instinct, while protective, can result in serious injuries as the impact travels through the hand, arm, and shoulder. Common injuries include:

Wrist fractures

Frequently occur when falling forward or backward.

Elbow dislocations or fractures

Result from severe impact or unnatural twisting during a fall.

Hand and finger fractures

Often caused by direct impact with the ground.

Sprains and strains

Damage to ligaments in the wrist or elbow from overstretching or twisting during a fall.

By recognizing the risks and taking precautions, you can reduce your chance of these injuries.

Tips to Prevent Hand, Wrist, and Elbow Injuries

Simple adjustments can minimize your risk of cold-related falls and injuries:

Choose the Right Gloves

Wear warm, non-slip gloves to protect your hands and maintain a secure grip. Avoid overly bulky gloves that can reduce dexterity.

Keep Hands Free for Balance

Avoid carrying items or keeping your hands in your pockets while walking on potentially icy surfaces. Keeping your arms free helps stabilize your balance.

Take Smaller Steps

Walk slowly and take deliberate, short steps to maintain stability. Avoid rushing or overextending your stride, especially on slippery ground.

Invest in Proper Footwear

Wear shoes with excellent traction to reduce the risk of slipping. Ice grips or cleats can provide additional stability in icy areas.

Use Caution when Clearing Ice

Shoveling can strain your hands, wrists, and elbows. Use an ergonomic shovel, avoid twisting motions, and take frequent breaks to prevent overuse injuries.

Watch for Black Ice

Thin, nearly invisible ice can be highly slippery. Test surfaces cautiously before stepping and use sand, salt, or cat litter for added traction.

Modify Activities

Avoid running or jumping in icy conditions. If engaging in outdoor activities, ensure surfaces are safe and consider protective gear for your hands and arms.

What to Do if You Fall

Despite precautions, falls can happen. Protect your hands, wrists, and elbows by:

Rolling with the fall

Try to land on your side or back to distribute the impact away from your arms.

Avoiding stiff arms

Keep your arms slightly bent to absorb the force and reduce strain on joints.

Seeking prompt care

If you experience pain, swelling, or difficulty moving a joint, consult Dr. Donnelly immediately to avoid long-term complications.

Cold Weather Care for Your Hands and Arms

Beyond fall prevention, protect your hands and arms from the cold:

Layer up

Wear insulated jackets and arm warmers to keep joints warm and reduce stiffness.

Stay hydrated

Cold weather can dehydrate your body, affecting joint health.

Limit outdoor time

Prolonged exposure to freezing temperatures can increase stiffness in the hands and wrists, making them more vulnerable to injury.

Protect Your Hands, Wrists, and Elbows This Winter

If you’ve fallen and hurt yourself, don’t ignore the pain—delaying treatment can worsen the injury and prolong recovery. While South Louisiana’s icy conditions may be temporary, the risk of injury is real. By following these tips and exercising caution, you can reduce your chances of injury and stay safe this winter. If you do experience an injury, schedule an appointment with Dr. Brandon P. Donnelly for expert care, a proper diagnosis, and the fastest path to recovery.

About Dr. Brandon P. Donnelly, MD

Dr. Brandon P. Donnelly is a board certified orthopedic hand specialist with Pontchartrain Orthopedics & Sports Medicine. Dr. Donnelly completed his hand and microsurgery fellowship at the prestigious Philadelphia Hand to Shoulder Center. Dr. Donnelly treats all ages of patients in the greater New Orleans area for hand, wrist, and elbow conditions.

This site is not intended to and does not provide medical advice, professional diagnosis, opinion, treatment or services to you or to any other individual. Through this website and links to other websites, Brandon P. Donnelly, MD provides general information for educational purposes only. The content provided in this website and links, is not a substitute for medical care or treatment. You should not use this information in place of a consultation or the advice of your healthcare provider. Brandon P. Donnelly, MD is not liable or responsible for any advice, course of treatment, diagnosis or any other information, services or product you obtain through this site.