Slipping in a Winter Wonderland

This is the time of year at Doctors Express of Timonium when we see numerous injuries from falls—thanks to slippery and wet winter surfaces.

Falls frequently result in:

·         Fractured wrists, arms and ankles

·         Back injuries

·         Concussions

Particularly dangerous in winter are outside stairs, building entrances and parking lots.

Everyone should be careful when walking in wintry weather, but remember that elderly folks are especially at risk. A fall from which a young person might recover quickly is more likely to lead to serious orthopedic injuries, such as broken hips, for older populations.

Here are some tips to help you stay safe while walking in winter:

·         Slow down and take small steps.

·         Use handrails when climbing stairs.

·         Wear shoes or boots with good traction—carry heels and shoes with smooth leather soles in a bag and change when you arrive at your destination.

·         Stick to areas that have been cleared and treated when possible.

·         Keep hands out of pockets and use backpacks or bags with straps so that hands are free to grasp handrails and help you stay balanced.

·         If you fall backwards, tuck the chin toward the chest so that your head does not hit the ground with full force.

·         Beware of “black ice,” a thin, nearly invisible layer of ice that can form on the pavement—especially common in the early morning and in shady areas.

Finally, I want to remind everyone not to let embarrassment get in the way of seeking treatment after a fall. No one wants to be viewed as “klutzy,” but even worse is to leave an injury untreated, which can increase recovery time, pain and the severity of the injury.

If you get hurt falling, visit us at Doctors Express of Timonium. We have on-site X-ray capabilities for quick diagnosis and treatment. And we’ll treat you with compassion and respect.

Be well!