Derek L. Hill, D.O.

Fellowship-Trained Orthopedic Surgeon and Specialist

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How To Avoid Falls & Fractures At Home

Posted on 07.24.14 | 6 Comments

Macro of ShoeOsteoporosis is a condition in which the bones become weak and prone to breaking easily. Persons with this condition should therefore prevent falls since they can result in fractures of the hip, wrist, and other bones in the body.

Simple measures that can reduce the likelihood of falling and fracturing bones at home include ensuring that floors are free of clutter and devoid of loose cords that can trip you. If the floors are made of slippery marble or waxed wood, cover them with carpet which has skid-proof backing.

In the bathroom, install grab bars in the walls beside the bathtub and ensure that the bath mats have anti-slip matting. When you feel unstable, consider bathing while sitting on a shower chair and using a handheld showerhead.

In the kitchen use non-skid rugs near the sink and keep a mop nearby to cleanup spills as soon as they happen. Keep the most often used items within easy reach to avoid bending or climbing on stools to reach them. If you have to use a stepstool, invest in a sturdy one with wide steps and a handrail.

In the bedroom keep a flashlight with new batteries beside your bed all the time. Ensure that you also have a night light between the bedroom and bathroom. To avoid bending, buy a dressing stick and a manual grasping device.

Ensure that the stairwell is well lit and that it has light switches at the bottom and top. Install handrails and mark the top and bottom steps with bright tape.

If the walkways and driveways around your home look slippery, walk on the grass. Wear low heeled shoes with rubber soles for a solid footing and consider using a walker or cane with an ice pick on it. You can also attach ice grips to the soles of your boots for added traction. In addition consider wearing hip protectors and hip pads for protection in case you fall.

Cover the porch steps with weather-proof paint and keep the handrails in good repair. Make sure that the outdoor lights are working and the grounds are free of trash.

Finally, consider consulting an occupational therapist to come to your home and advise you on how to reduce any hazards that can lead to falls and fractures.

Written by: Marian Kim, Rust Built, Marketing Services

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Categories: Articles Tags: fall prevention, fractures, osteoporosis

Trackbacks

  1. Preventing Broken Bones in Kids | Derek L. Hill, D.O. says:
    August 14, 2014 at 8:03 am

    […] part of childhood, falls are very common. Falls can result in fractures or broken bones, however, there are things you can […]

    Reply
  2. Common Knee Injuries | Derek L. Hill, D.O. says:
    September 30, 2014 at 8:02 am

    […] to the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons, common injuries of the knee include fractures, dislocations and ligament […]

    Reply
  3. Tips For Avoiding Slip & Falls This Winter | Derek L. Hill, D.O. says:
    November 4, 2014 at 8:04 am

    […] conditions not be taken for granted as you move about in your daily activities. In order to prevent falls or slips that could cause concussions, fractures and long recovery times, learn to recognize the […]

    Reply
  4. How To Avoid Falls And Fractures At Home - Marian Kim MD says:
    November 20, 2014 at 5:21 pm

    […] Discover the simple measures you can take to reduce your chances of slipping and breaking your bones in your house by reading How To Avoid Falls And Fractures At Home. […]

    Reply
  5. How To Improve Your Bone Health | Derek L. Hill, D.O. says:
    July 15, 2015 at 8:02 am

    […] Muscle building exercises also strengthen bones by increasing their density. These can be done by using free weights in a gym or elastic bands in the privacy of your home. […]

    Reply
  6. Tips For Avoiding Slip & Falls This Winter - Derek L. Hill, D.O. says:
    July 23, 2019 at 1:49 pm

    […] conditions not be taken for granted as you move about in your daily activities. In order to prevent falls or slips that could cause concussions, fractures and long recovery times, learn to recognize the […]

    Reply

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  • Rapid Recovery

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