Every winter, the Tri-County Orthopedics staff at Carthage Area Hospital sees hundreds of patients with weather-related injuries. Due to the area’s frequent ice and snow, people of all ages are at an increased risk for getting hurt throughout the winter months. This season, keep you and your family safe with help from the following tips.
Falling
Slips and falls are some of the most common winter accidents. While some falls only result in minor bruising, others can cause serious damage, such as ankle sprains, wrist fractures, broken bones, concussions and back injuries. Every time you head outside, especially if it recently snowed or rained, take these precautions:
- Wear winter boots that have good traction in ice and snow
- Walk slowly with short strides
- Shovel, plow and salt the porch, steps, walkway and driveway of your home
- Offer extra support to the elderly, children or others who may need it
Shoveling
The repetitive motion of pushing and lifting heavy snow can cause muscle pulls and strains, particularly in the shoulders, as well as soft tissue injuries. When combined with bitter cold temperatures, shoveling can also lead to dehydration and even trigger a heart attack. To help prevent injury, take breaks often, have a friend or neighbor help you and wear warm, protective clothing. It also helps to stretch beforehand.
Winter Sports Activities
Winter is ideal for activities like ice skating, tubing, snowboarding, skiing, dog sledding and more. To prevent injuries, make sure you wear protective clothing, such as helmets and knee pads, and familiarize yourself with best safety practices. As with shoveling, stretching can be a huge help in avoiding strains and pulls, and it’s always a good idea to practice the fundamentals as you learn a new winter sport – proper technique can go a long way toward stopping injuries before they happen.
Carthage Area Hospital Can Help
Even when precautions are taken, winter injuries can easily occur. If you’re experiencing the pain and mobility issues caused by slips, falls and other mishaps, schedule an appointment at Tri-County Orthopedics by calling 315-493-3333. Our team of highly-qualified orthopedic specialists and surgeons can help get you on the road to recovery. For emergencies, please dial 9-1-1 immediately or visit our 24-hour emergency room.