Avoiding Slips and Falls This Winter: Injury Prevention Tips That Work

Each winter, nearly one million Americans slip and fall from icy, slick, or snowy conditions. Although it doesn’t always snow in Allen, Texas, ice storms and wet weather can make surfaces slippery, increasing the risk of injury during daily activities, such as checking the mail or getting into your car. These falls aren’t always preventable, but you can take steps to lower your risk.

At Twin Creeks Orthopedics and Regenerative Clinic, our expert team loves assisting patients with fall prevention and treatment. Keep reading to learn how to evaluate your fall risk and steps you can take to prevent winter injuries.

Identify your personal fall risk

Certain factors can make you more likely to experience a slip-and-fall injury this winter. These include your:

• Age (older adults may have a higher fall risk)
• Vision
• Mobility (difficulty walking or maintaining balance)
• Medications

For example, if you use eyeglasses or contacts, it’s important to wear them when going outside, so you can see potential risks, such as patches of ice or holiday decorations that might trip you up. The same goes for prescription medications. Check for potential side effects to reduce your risk of dizziness and falling.

Keeping a journal of your personal risk factors can help you spot potentially dangerous activities and take steps to make them safer.

Three tips for winter fall prevention

1. Prepare your home environment

Winter ice and snow can appear unexpectedly, so be prepared for potential storms. Place mats in front of all your doors and stock up on supplies, such as sand or rock salt, to improve traction. When a storm hits, clear all walkways of ice and snow and apply sand or salt to prevent slips.

Inside, keep hallways free of clutter and keep cords from holiday lights or other decorations off the floor. If you regularly use the bathroom at night, it can also be beneficial to light your path with night lights to prevent tripping in the dark.

2. Wear proper footwear

Rain, ice, and snow make surfaces slippery. Wear shoes or boots that fit well and provide plenty of traction. Waterproof shoes are especially helpful because they’re designed for wet and sloppy conditions. If the soles of your shoes are worn or the tread is bare, invest in a new pair. This simple step can reduce your risk of injuries from slips and falls.

3. Stay strong and steady on your feet

Muscles naturally weaken with age, which can increase the risk of slips and falls. You can’t stop this process, but regular exercise can improve your balance and leg strength, reducing the risk of injury.

Aim for at least 30 minutes of physical activity five days a week. Walking, cycling, and yoga are low-impact and beneficial for all fitness levels. If it’s been a while since you’ve exercised, working with one of our physical therapists can help you ease back into activity safely and guide your progress. Studies show that with greater strength and balance, you may be between 32% and 40% less likely to experience serious consequences from a fall. 

We can help lower your risk of slips and falls

If you’re worried about fall-related injuries, like fractures, this winter, partnering with a physical therapist can provide peace of mind and support your mobility. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help with fall prevention. Call (469) 342-3383 or book online.