As inclement weather approaches in the Tri-State area, it’s important to stay informed about the risks of falling and how to prevent injuries. We sat down with Dr. Perry to discuss common injuries, safety measures, and advice for those with mobility challenges.
Common Injuries During Inclement Weather
Inclement weather injuries are common during the winter months, often caused by slippery surfaces and falls. Some of the most frequent injuries include:
What are the best safety measures Tri-State residents can take during inclement weather?
If you don’t have to go outside, don’t go outside. If you do have to go outside, ask for assistance preparing surfaces, and stay off of any slopes. Try and stay on flat surfaces and be aware of stairs. Decks are slick because the cold air comes in on the top and from up underneath. If you are already at risk for falling, try not to get outside if you can help it
Who are the people most at risk for falls?
If you use any kind of assisted device to walk—cane, a walker, or crutches—or if you have balance trouble, trouble seeing or issues with your eyesight, those are all substantial risk factors for falling.
What advice would you give to someone who lives alone and struggles with mobility during inclement weather?
Try and get some support to help you: family members, neighbors, friends, or someone from church to bring you what you need until the weather improves.
How can someone distinguish between an injury that can be treated at home versus one that requires immediate medical attention?
- Pain and swelling after a fall: It can be hard to tell a break from a sprain, but it is safer to have it X-rayed, so we know the difference.
- Some injuries can be obvious: If there’s deformity, there’s pain that there is going to be no way you can control it at home. Those are things that need to be seen. If you can’t move your arm or walk, those need to be seen.
- When in doubt, check it out. Call our office to schedule an appointment, visit one of our urgent care locations listed below or go to the nearest emergency department.
Summary
Falls are going to happen. It’s just about putting the odds in your favor to prevent it. If you don’t have to go out, don’t go out. If you do have to go out, get everything cleaned up the best you can, or get somebody do it for you. Certainly, rely on your support systems—your family, your friends, your neighbors, and the people you go to church with. Those are certainly good places to get support.
Walk-ins welcome; no appointment needed for Orthopaedic Urgent Care
