Winter can be the most wonderful time of the year, so don’t let slipping on ice derail your plans for the season. However, if accidents do happen, the Laborers Health & Wellness clinics are here for you!
Indications you may need additional care after a slip or fall
- Your daily activities and tasks are interrupted or impossible for you to complete because of pain.
- Your pain hasn’t improved within 24-48 hours of falling, even after resting and icing the area, and taking pain relievers.
Sometimes there’s no avoiding a fall, but there are things you can do during and immediately after falling to lessen the likelihood of serious injury.
- Relax your whole body: Taking the full impact of a fall on your hands and wrists can seriously injure them. Imagine your body is a sack of grain – curl in slightly and let yourself drop.
- Protect your head: When falling, tuck your chin into your chest or, if falling forward, turn your head to the side. You can also raise your arms and shoulders to provide cushion for your skull.
- Pay attention to your body after a fall: After falling, take a moment to lie still on the ground and assess how you feel.
Go to the emergency room right away if you hit your head and lost consciousness. If you hit your head and did not lose consciousness, but are currently taking blood thinners, head to urgent care or contact your primary care doctor right away.
Tips to prevent slip and fall injuries
Cold weather injuries can make the winter season much more difficult – avoid them with the following tips:
- Keep your hands free
- Choose appropriate footwear
- Look ahead
- Avoid ice altogether
Ice got you down?
The Laborers Health & Wellness clinics are here for you!
Schedule a visit at https://www.healthpartners.com/laborersschedule or call 952-687-8100.
