As the new year begins, many people return to full schedules after a slower holiday pace. Work routines resume, kids head back to school, workouts restart, and daily responsibilities quickly fill the calendar. While this reset can feel motivating, it can also place unexpected strain on the body.
In January, urgent care clinics often see an increase in muscle strains, joint pain, back injuries, and overuse injuries. These issues commonly occur when activity levels increase too quickly or when the body is asked to perform at full speed without adequate preparation.
Why Injuries Are More Common in January
During the holidays, routines often shift. People may move less, sit more, sleep differently, and take time off from regular exercise. When normal activity resumes suddenly, muscles and joints that are not fully conditioned can become strained.
Common January injuries include lower back pain, neck and shoulder tension, knee pain, wrist strain, and muscle soreness. Poor posture at work, carrying heavy bags, returning to sports too quickly, or pushing through discomfort can all contribute.
How to Ease Back Into Daily Activities Safely
Taking a gradual approach to routines can help reduce injury risk. Warming up before exercise, stretching regularly, maintaining proper posture, and listening to early signs of discomfort are important steps. Building activity levels slowly allows the body time to adapt and recover.
Pain that is sharp, persistent, worsening, or accompanied by swelling, numbness, or limited movement should not be ignored. Continuing to push through pain can lead to longer recovery times and more serious injury.
When to Seek Medical Care
If pain does not improve with rest, ice, or gentle movement, or if an injury interferes with daily activities, medical evaluation is important. Urgent care is well-equipped to assess strains, sprains, joint pain, and minor injuries. Providers can perform exams, order imaging when needed, and recommend appropriate treatment to support recovery.
Addressing injuries early can help you return to your routine safely and avoid setbacks later in the year.
If you are experiencing pain, discomfort, or a new injury as you get back into your routine, Marque Urgent Care is here to help. Our providers offer convenient, walk-in care for patients of all ages and can help evaluate injuries, provide treatment, and guide next steps so you can move forward with confidence.