The leaves are changing to beautiful yellows, oranges, and reds and snow is on the horizon, both of which make for great hiking scenery! If you are planning a hike in the mountains over the weekend, check out our hiking injury prevention tips below. If you or a loved one does sustain an injury while hiking, such as an ankle fracture or sprain, come by one of our orthopedic clinics in either Knoxville and Athens for orthopedic treatment. Walk-ins welcome!
Top Orthopedic Hiking Injuries:
- Fractures: Ankle Fractures and Wrist Fractures
Falling over a hidden rock and catching yourself on the ground could result in a wrist fracture. Ankle fractures are common if someone slides off the side of the trail.
At ORTHOKnox, the sports medicine specialists offer conservative or surgical treatments for ankle fractures. Your orthopedic doctor at ORTHOKnox will determine if you need surgery for your fracture. We offer minimally-invasive arthroscopic surgery that allows the quickest recovery time.
Rolling your ankle on a twisted root can result in a sprained ankle. It’s best to use the RICE (rest, ice, compression, and elevation) method if you suspect a sprained ankle. Sprained ankles heal at different rates, depending on the severity. You can find more detail on healing time in this blog. The physical therapists on-site at ORTHOKnox can help you restore your range of motion and strengthen your ankle.
Hiking Injury Prevention:
- Wear hiking boots that fit properly
- Hiking boots that come up over the ankle can protect from sprains
- Do dynamic stretches before you hike
- Keep an eye on the trail for any obstacles
- Take a break if you get fatigued
- Work up to longer hikes
- Stay hydrated and keep light snacks close by
Where should I go if I get injured while hiking?
With its board-certified surgeons and Urgent Orthopaedic Care Walk-in Clinic that is available without an appointment, ORTHOKnox has got you covered with locations in Knoxville and Athens, Tennessee. For more information about how the orthopedic doctors, sports medicine specialists, and physical therapists at ORTHOKnox can help with your hiking injury, call (865) 251-3030, or fill out our easy-to-use online appointment request form. We look forward to hearing from you!