The doctor warned about the increased risk of falls due to slippery streets after winter storms

After a winter storm, sidewalks, parking lots, and stairs can quickly become dangerous due to ice, even after being treated with snow plows and salt machines. This was reported on January 28 by Medical Xpress magazine.

"An invisible patch of ice is a potential cause of an accident. People often forget how dangerous a fall can be, especially when they are in a hurry to get somewhere," said Alexey Dvorzhinsky, a doctor, orthopedic surgeon and traumatologist from the Hospital of Specialized Surgery in New York and HSS Long Island in Uniondale.

According to him, hidden ice can remain in shady places, near curbs and between parked cars even after most of the snow has melted. These slippery areas can lead to serious injuries, especially in the elderly.

To reduce the risk, the doctor recommends slowing down and wearing shoes or boots with good grip, such as rubber or neoprene soles. In particular, shoes with smooth leather or plastic soles, as well as heels, should be avoided.

If it is necessary to walk on an icy surface, the specialist recommends taking short steps or moving around, moving your legs a little to maintain balance. You should also always look ahead and stick to cleared sidewalks, avoid cutting through large snowdrifts, and hold onto handrails on stairs whenever possible.

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In addition, Dvorzhinsky advised to tuck in scarves and put on a hat so that it does not interfere with vision, use a cane if additional balance is needed, be careful when getting out of the car, do not carry too many bags at once, carefully monitor the "black ice" that disguises itself as asphalt, and also wash snow and water from shoes. at the entrance to the building.

He also stressed that some medications, including medications for allergies or colds, can cause dizziness or drowsiness. This will increase the chance of falls.

At home, it is recommended to remove tools and toys from the aisles, install handrails on external steps and sprinkle sand, salt or cat litter to improve grip on slippery surfaces. Taking a few extra precautions can help avoid injury that could lead to an emergency room.

On January 19, Mikhail Doroshev, an orthopedic traumatologist of the highest category, an arthrologist, PhD, spoke about the "correct" fall when losing balance in icy conditions. According to him, even a fall from a height of one's own height can lead to serious injuries, but the severity of the damage depends on age, health status and physical fitness. If you lose your balance, the specialist recommended protecting your head, throwing objects out of your hands if possible and trying to slow down the fall, as well as not landing on outstretched arms, elbows or knees.

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