South Florida doctors warn of orthopedic injuries during hurricane prep

Palm Beach Orthopaedic Institute is highlighting a seasonal rise in shoulder, elbow, hip and knee injuries tied to hurricane preparation and cleanup in South Florida. The warning matters because many of these injuries stem from preventable strain, slips and fatigue during common storm-readiness tasks.

Why it matters: - Hurricane prep and post-storm cleanup can trigger avoidable orthopedic injuries, adding pressure to patients and local healthcare facilities. - The highest-risk tasks include lifting, overhead work, twisting under load, and cleanup on wet or debris-filled surfaces. - Older adults and people with prior joint problems face a higher risk of strains, sprains, and flare-ups of degenerative conditions.

What happened: - Palm Beach Orthopaedic Institute is warning South Florida residents about predictable injury patterns tied to hurricane season preparation. - The guidance was issued in Wellington, Florida, on September 8, 2026. - Dr. John Hinson, an orthopedic surgeon specializing in shoulder and elbow conditions, reports seeing more rotator cuff strains, tendinitis and ligament sprains during this period. - Dr. Jonathan Shaw, an orthopedic surgeon specializing in hip and knee conditions, reports more knee sprains, meniscus injuries and osteoarthritis flare-ups during hurricane prep and recovery.

The details: - Pre-storm work such as installing shutters, moving outdoor furniture, clearing debris and securing property often involves unfamiliar tools, repetitive overhead motion and heavy lifting. - Shoulder and elbow injuries are linked to lifting overhead, operating power drills and carrying heavy objects. - Hip and knee injuries are often tied to moving heavy debris, walking on uneven or wet ground and twisting while carrying loads. - Post-storm cleanup raises the risk of slips, trips and falls because of unstable footing, poor visibility and debris-laden terrain. - Fatigue makes injuries more likely by reducing coordination and increasing strain during long work periods. - Prevention steps for upper-extremity injuries include pacing work over several days, using proper lifting mechanics and taking rest breaks during overhead tasks. - Assistive devices and extra help can reduce strain when distributing heavy work. - Warning signs such as persistent pain, weakness or reduced range of motion should be addressed early to avoid more serious injury. - Prevention steps for hip and knee injuries include supportive slip-resistant footwear, hazard awareness and avoiding sudden twisting while carrying loads. - People with joint disease or prior injuries may benefit from delegating high-risk tasks or using protective bracing where appropriate. - Hydration, scheduled rest intervals and realistic task planning are key parts of injury prevention during storm preparation.

Between the lines: - The advisory shifts the hurricane-preparedness conversation beyond supplies and evacuation to include physical safety during the work of preparing and recovering. - The message is especially relevant for people with limited manual-labor experience, who may underestimate how physically demanding storm prep can be. - Public education that is practical and easy to follow could lower injury rates and reduce avoidable healthcare visits.

What's next: - Healthcare providers should expect a seasonal uptick in orthopedic cases as hurricane activity increases. - Residents are being urged to build injury-prevention steps into storm plans before heavy work begins. - More information about Dr. John Hinson and Dr. Jonathan Shaw is available at Palm Beach Orthopaedic Institute.