Derek L. Hill, D.O.

Fellowship-Trained Orthopedic Surgeon and Specialist

Orthopedic Holiday Safety

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Man Slipped And Injured Back On Icy StreetThe holidays are a fun time for the whole family but should be taken with caution. As the holiday season can be very hectic, it’s important to remember to slow down and practice holiday safety.

According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) about 39,000 people are treated in emergency rooms for fall-related injuries a year. About a third of these injuries relate to decorating activities. Additionally, according to the US Consumer Products Safety Commission, thousands of people are also treated for injuries related to carrying luggage. Lastly, many winter-related sports can also lead to terrible accidents. Many injuries are related to winter sports such as snowmobiling, sledding, skiing, and snowboarding.

Preventing Falls and Injuries

Practice Safety

As a general rule of thumb, take precautions before putting up decorations. Make sure you are dressed properly and your shoe laces are tied.

Keep Pathways Clear

Keep pathways clear of decorations and objects.

Use a Step Stool

Use a step stool (and not furniture) if you need to reach high places or to hang decorations.

Ladder Usage

Know how to properly use a ladder and make sure surfaces are even before using the ladder. Also, make sure to inspect the ladder before using to avoid any falls.

Do Not Drink and Decorate!

Save your drinking for after the decorations are hung.

Luggage Carrying Tips

Injuries in carrying luggage can be caused to the back, neck, and shoulder due to heavy luggage.

Weigh Luggage

Weigh all luggage beforehand and be careful if your luggage is over the recommended weight. Excess luggage weight can hurt your neck, back, and shoulders!

Lifting Luggage

Be very cautious in lifting luggage, especially into the overhead compartment on the airplane! Always ask for assistance if you need help or check luggage in.

Use Proper Technique

Always use proper lifting techniques when lifting luggage. Always bend your knees and use your legs to lift heavy luggage (and not with your back!).

Winter Sports

Proper Equipment

Always use proper equipment and wear proper protective gear when participating in winter-related sports activities such as helmets, gloves, and padding. Make sure to inspect equipment before participating in winter sports.

Follow the Rules!

Make sure that you know the rules. Not following the rules could have very dangerous consequences.

Know Who to Contact

Last, but not least, know who to contact and what to do in case of an emergency.

Reference:
“About Holiday Safety.” http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/.

Written by: Sharan Kaur, Rust Built, Marketing Services

Tips For Avoiding Slip & Falls This Winter

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Man Slipped And Injured Back On Icy StreetAs wintry weather closes in on the end of another year, it is important that icy 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 hazards of walking on slippery surfaces.

Use these tips to avoid slip and falls this winter:

  • If you must get outdoors, plan extra time so as not to hurry. Walk against traffic, toward oncoming traffic, and stay as visible as possible by wearing bright or reflective garments. There’s nothing wrong with using a walking stick or cane for stabilization.
  • First and foremost, wear shoes that are either rubber soled, or have rough texture to dig into snow and prevent slipping on ice. Don’t let scarves or hoodies block your side vision.
  • Keep snow from building up on steps and entries. Ice can hide beneath. Also, use a floor mat inside the front door to keep moisture from causing slips inside.
  • Keep your arms available to maintain balance. If your arms are full of shopping bags or your hands are stuck in your pockets, they will not be available to inhibit or break a fall.
  • Falls are high on the list of home accidents. Wherever you feel safe and secure, use the most caution. Walk slowly, flat-footed, watching where you are stepping.
  • Give a hand to an elderly person. They are the most susceptible to falls and loss of balance.

Snow and ice can be lots of fun. But recognizing their dangers is important when you’re on the way to work and home. Save the daredevil risks to the slopes, where you’re probably more prepared for the pain.

Written by: Ruby Moseley, Rust Built, Marketing Services

Ways to Avoid Winter Injuries

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winter injuriesIt’s winter and we need to find ways to avoid winter injuries. Because it’s a time when people, especially kids on winter break, visit ski resorts or just hang out with their friends playing in the snow. If you’re part of the 30% who exercise or participate in sports, as fun as it is, there are a few things you need to do to avoid winter injuries.Read More >