Changing leaves and crisp weather make autumn a great time to get outside – or hunker down at home. But it’s also a prime season for slips, strains, sprains and other injuries.
From weekend yard work and fall sports to rain-soaked sidewalks and frosty mornings, here are a few reasons people visit urgent care this time of year:
- Leaf-covered surfaces. Fallen leaves can hide uneven ground and become dangerously slick when wet. Twisted ankles and bruised knees are common.
- Rain and early frost. Persistent drizzle and cold mornings can make decks, stairs, sidewalks, and driveways unexpectedly treacherous, leading to slips and joint injuries.
- Ladder and gutter mishaps. Hanging holiday lights, clearing debris, or removing window screens often means climbing ladders. One wrong move or overreach can cause bruises, sprains, or fractures.
- Less daylight. Shorter days make it harder to spot tripping hazards or oncoming cars.
- Rake-related back strain. Repetitive bending and twisting can cause sore muscles and strained backs. Lifting heavy outdoor items can also raise the risk for injury if you don’t use proper form.
- Game-day goofs. Sports like football, soccer, or pickleball can leave you with sprains and pulled muscles, especially if you skip warm-ups or push too hard.
- DIY and home projects. Home maintenance and fix-it projects – from roof repairs to reorganizing the garage – can turn hazardous without the right gear, lighting, or preparation.
- Minor car accidents. Wet roads, glare, and low visibility can make driving tricky, especially during early morning school drop-offs or evening commutes.
- Poison oak and ivy. They’re not just summer hazards. Even bare stems can cause an itchy rash if they touch your skin.
How can I prevent injuries this time of year?
Don’t let a slip, trip or other mishap sideline you this fall. A little preparation and awareness will go a long way to keeping you injury-free:
- Dress for the conditions. Wear shoes with good traction and weather-appropriate layers.
- Mind your footing. Clear walkways of wet leaves and debris; use sand or de-icer on frosty surfaces.
- Lift safely. Bend at your knees (not your waist) when handling heavy items like bags of leaves, patio furniture, or large potted plants.
- Use good form when raking. Avoid twisting, try to keep your back straight and position the rake close to your body instead of reaching out to gather leaves.
- Use ladders carefully. Place them on a stable surface, maintain three points of contact, and avoid overreaching. The American Ladder Institute offers some simple steps to help keep you balanced and safe.
- Stay visible. Use reflective gear or carry a flashlight if walking or biking at dusk.
- Warm up before chores or sports. Gentle stretching helps prevent strains and overuse injuries.
- Protect your skin. When hiking or gardening, wear long sleeves and pants to avoid contact with poison oak or ivy.
Does “falling back” to standard time affect your health?
Turning back the clocks each fall may give you an extra hour of sleep, but the switch can also throw off your body’s internal clock. The changes in light exposure can disrupt your circadian rhythm and lead to mood changes, irritability, sleep problems, and a higher risk of depression.
Studies show that traffic accidents and pedestrian injuries often spike in the weeks following the time change. Reduced daylight can affect visibility during morning and evening drive times, while fatigue from disrupted sleep patterns can slow reactions.
Trusted organizations like the American Medical Association (AMA) and American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM) have long advocated for ending seasonal time changes, citing better health and safety when following a consistent schedule. A recent Stanford University study agrees, showing that permanent standard time better aligns the body’s natural circadian rhythm, helping us stay more alert, balanced, and rested.
When should I seek care for my injuries?
Most minor injuries often improve with rest, ice, compression, and elevation. But if pain persists, your movement is limited or swelling worsens, it’s time to get checked out.
Indigo Urgent Care makes it easy to get the prompt care you need for most minor illnesses and injuries, including:
- Sprains and strains
- Bruises
- Scrapes or minor cuts that need stitches
- Minor fractures
Just walk in to one of our neighborhood locations, book an appointment online, or schedule an Indigo Virtual Care visit from the comfort of home – or wherever your fall adventures take you in Washington and Idaho.
Every Indigo location has on-site digital X-ray, and we’ll even send you home with a pair of crutches, if needed. And if your injuries require a higher level of care, we can arrange a referral to a specialist.
In person and virtually, Indigo is here 8 am to 8 pm every day, including weekends.
