Holidays are supposed to be a time of cheer. Time spent enjoying friends and family! Don’t let a fall injury put a damper on your holiday excitement.
Most fall injuries during this time of year are related to falls during holiday decorating. In fact, according to the CDC, nearly 6,000 people a year have fall related injuries while decorating. Nearly 43% of those falls are from ladders.
Not all fall injuries are from decorating however, some are sports related! Use a wrist brace this season when skiing or snowboarding and you might avoid a visit to the ER! Wrist fractures are very high during this season!
Lower back injuries are another one of the most common injuries people suffer. To avoid such injuries try to take the pressure off of your back when prepping for meals by placing one of your feet on a small foot stool.
Some tips on avoiding fall injuries include:
- Keep walking paths clear: Make sure extension cords are kept off the ground through common walking areas. Inside or outside, use special hooks and ties to hang cords off the ground or tuck them in along floorboards to prevent yourself and others from tripping.
- Remove clutter, rugs, and toys from the floor to avoid tripping and falling. Fall injuries are at an all-time high during this season.
- If you’re decorating, decorate with another person. They can watch the ladder and help secure supplies. Also, decorate during the daytime when you can see dangers more easily.
- Avoid prolong sitting.
- When lifting or carrying heavier objects, avoid twisting. Keep items such as laundry, dishes, groceries, etc close to your body and do not twist or slouch.
If you do suffer from an injury this holiday season, our experts here at Valeo Physical Therapy can help you heal and get back to moving in no time!
