Icy sidewalks, snow-packed driveways and slippery parking lots are part of winter in the Midwest, which can quickly turn a routine walk into a painful fall.
Slips and falls are common this time of year, especially when conditions change quickly and hidden ice catches people off guard. Yet many injuries can be prevented with a few simple precautions.
“Winter can be beautiful, but it’s also slippery,” said Dr. Richard Goding, MD, who specializes in orthopedics at St. Anthony Regional Hospital and hosts the “St. Anthony Hospital Orthopedics Show.” “We see many, many injuries from slips and falls in the ice and the snow — and a lot of them can be preventable.”
To help you stay safe this season, remember these quick tips:
Dr. Richard Goding, MD
- Take your time. Walk with smaller, deliberate steps and use handrails whenever possible.
- Watch for black ice. It can be nearly invisible, so move carefully and test your footing even when surfaces look clear.
- If you unexpectedly find yourself on ice, take short, shuffling steps and get to dry ground as soon as you can.
- When in doubt, don’t go out — consider asking a friend, neighbor or family member for assistance.
If you do fall, don’t try to tough it out. “Pain, swelling or trouble moving a joint could mean a fracture or a sprain, and the sooner you get it checked out, the faster you can heal,” said Goding.
At St. Anthony, our orthopedic team is here to help you stay safe and active this winter. If you have concerns about a fall or ongoing joint pain, schedule an appointment by calling 712-794-5536 — and remember to walk smart while enjoying the season.