by Liz Bonis, WKRC | Click here to see the full story.

CINCINNATI (WKRC) – As colder weather sets in, the team at OrthoCincy is seeing an increase in ankle injuries due to slips and falls.

These injuries are already common from sports activities, and the added risk of slipping on icy surfaces can exacerbate the problem.

“The ankle is one of the most commonly injured joints in the body. Everybody knows about ankle sprains; everyone has probably had an ankle sprain at some point in time. Fortunately, most of those are minor and can be treated non-operatively,” said Dr. John Linz, OrthoCincy foot and ankle specialist.

They recommend taking preventive measures to protect your ankles during the winter months.

“Like keeping your weight down because increased weight increases problems and puts more pressure through the joints. Making sure you do your stretching before and after warming up. Don’t cold stretch; warm stretch; stretch afterwards when you’re the warmest; you get the best stretch. The big thing is listening to your body; if you start to get sore, the old, ‘no pain, no gain,’ I say is insane,” said Dr. Linz.

For those who do experience a slip or fall, OrthoCincy now offers urgent care at several locations, which can help avoid long waits in emergency rooms. If you would like more information, click here.