‘Tis the season with chestnuts roasting on an open fire, Jack Frost nipping at our nose, yuletide carols being sung by a choir, and folks dressed up like Eskimos! It can truly be a magical time of the year. Unfortunately, Jack Frost can be a little mischievous by laying a thin coating of ice on the ground, which can put you at a higher risk for falls. According to the CDC, approximately 1 million Americans are injured annually as the result of falling on ice and snow. Of the 1 million falls caused by slipping on ice or snow, 800,000 are hospitalized due to fractures. These falls can be the result of poor balance, instability at any lower extremity joint, or even decreased strength. The good news is that there is a way to prevent these falls and decrease risk of injury. Our team at Renew Physiotherapy located inside your O2 location can help!
During your initial evaluation, your physiotherapist can provide thorough assessments to evaluate your movement patterns, muscle imbalances throughout the body, and identify any instabilities that can lead to poor balance. Additionally, other risk factors that could contribute to a higher falls risk will be assessed to assist in decreasing the chance of slipping, such as: poor footwear, gait assessment, and clutter in your environment. From there, your physiotherapist will work with you to develop an all-encompassing plan addressing these issues, creating a safer, stronger you! Working with your physiotherapist will provide you with the confidence to tackle any tricks or traps Jack Frost may have left for you, so you can be free to enjoy all the holiday festivities!