Preventing Winter Injuries

Slip and fall injuries from icy conditions

Wrist fractures, hip fractures and head injuries are common injuries that occur as a result of snowy and icy conditions.

Ways to prevent falls:

• Stay inside until roads and sidewalks have been cleared.

• Take your time walking; walk with slower and shorter steps.

• Wear proper footwear that has a good rubber tread for traction.

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Shoveling

Injuries to ligaments and muscles, especially in the lower back, are common from the bending, twisting and heavy lifting associated with shoveling.

To prevent injury:

• Pace yourself and take frequent breaks.

• Wear proper footwear and dress for winter conditions.

• Try pushing the snow as opposed to lifting and throwing it over your shoulders.

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Hypothermia

Hypothermia can occur when the body's core temperature lowers faster than it can maintain its normal level of 98.6ºF. It can also occur by a sudden wetting of the body from general exposure to winter conditions or falling into a body of water.

What to remember:

• • • Protection: Cover all exposed areas including your hands, face and neck.

    • Overexertion: Avoid activities that can cause you to sweat, which can cause dampness and loss of body heat.

    • Layers: Wear loose layers that will trap air and insulate you from the cold.

    • Dryness: Stay as dry as possible. Make sure that no snow can get into your clothing and create dampness.

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Winter sports injuries

In 2010 alone, more than 440,000 people were treated at hospitals, emergency rooms and doctor's offices for winter sports-related injuries, according to the US Consumer Product Safety Commission.

These included: 

• 148,000 injuries from snowboarding

• 144,000 injuries from skiing

• 58,500 injuries from ice skating

• 91,000 injuries from sledding

Common injuries include strains, sprains, dislocations and fractures. These injuries tend to happen towards the end of the day when people overexert themselves.

Some prevention strategies:

• Never participate in a winter sport alone.

• Warm up before participating; cold muscles, tendons and ligaments are vulnerable to injury.

• Wear appropriate clothing and protective gear (goggles, helmets, gloves and padding).

• Ensure that equipment is working properly before you use it.

• Drink plenty of water before, during and after activities.

• Avoid participating in sports when you are in pain or fatigued.

• Seek shelter and medical attention immediately if you, or anyone with you, are experiencing symptoms of hypothermia or frostbite.