SPILLS
Lisa Reed PT
If you are going to live in Northern Maine, then you
are going to have to deal with slippery ice and snow covered
surfaces. In this climate, falls are a real problem during the
winter months. But, there are some things you can do to
prepare for winter and to minimize your fall risk.
Good balance is essential to prevent falls. Weakness
in key muscle groups can make it much more difficult to
recover your center of gravity if you do start to slip. A
physical therapist can assess your balance, strength and range
of motion and provide education on exercises to improve
problem areas and recommend assistive devices to increase
stability and base of support.
In addition to understanding your physical
limitations, there are other things you can do to help
decrease falls. Proper footwear is important. Shoes that
have good treads and soles made of rubber or neoprene offer
better traction than leather or plastic. You can purchase
inexpensive spikes for the bottom of shoes when you know
you will be walking on icy surfaces, but they do need to be
removed for indoor walking.
Avoid rushing, take extra time, watch your step and
avoid taking short cuts over snow piles or walking in areas
where snow removal is incomplete. And, if you have no
other choice, walk with a slightly bent forward posture and
shorten your stride. Shuffling your feet will give you better
stability. Keep your hands free and out of your pockets and
avoid carrying loads you cannot see over.
Another common area for falls in winter can occur
while getting in and out of the car. Be sure to hold the
door or seat while you check your footing. It is always best
to enter and exit the car with both feet on the ground as
balance is much less secure with one foot.
Winter can be a fun season if you plan ahead and
prepare.
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WINTER 2010 County Health 41