Watch your step – You can confidently navigate wet, slippery winter surfaces

BY Isaiah Wenzel, Patient Care Coordinator

In one moment, you are walking along, thinking about your to-do list and in the next moment you are flailing on the cold ground. One split second can change everything. You quickly pick yourself off the ground – embarrassed and sore. Then, the worry sets in. What’s that new ache you feel? Did I just hit a slippery patch or am I not as strong as I thought?

When we are toddlers, falling is expected on a regular basis. As we grow into childhood, it is common enough that most kids under the age of 12 do not own a pair of pants without holes in the knees. Around the teen to early 20’s years, it generally happens only during rough play. After the age of 30, we seldom hit the ground unintentionally and by the age of 40, we don’t even get on the ground intentionally let alone unintentionally. Yet studies show that one in three people age 65 years or older fall each year. The risk of falling – and suffering long-term effects of fall-related problems, rises with age.

Many things contribute to this alarming fact including age-related normal bodily degeneration such as eyesight, hearing loss and diminished reflexes; or medical issues such as complications from diabetes, heart disease, thyroid issues, nerve pathology, loss of sensation in feet and circulatory issues – all affect balance strategies. Some are medication side effects from underlying health issues.

Other risk factors are physically-related and can range from muscle weakness, poor walking mechanics from stiff joints or pain-related adaptations and all can cause a general decline of balance skills. A sedentary lifestyle can also contribute to decreased balance.

How does one avoid sudden falls that could change your life in a split second? Take steps to reduce your risks. If you take care of your overall health, you may be able to lower your chances of falling. Here are a few tips:

1. Stay physically active – keeping your body strong helps your refluxes, too.
2. Have your eyes and hearing tested – be aware of your surroundings, as spots of ice can pop up unnoticed if walks are not properly shoveled and salted.
3. Get enough sleep.
4. Stand up slowly with thoughtfulness – take careful steps in slippery circumstances.
5. Perform regular stretches and strengthening exercises.
6. Wear appropriate footwear.
7. Practice simple balance skills.

With these simple tips, you will be able to confidently navigate sidewalks, driveways and curbs which can become hazardous during the winter months. However, if you still feel fearful of falling and hesitate to be outside during the colder months, we encourage you to contact Franklin Rehabilitation physical therapy at (414) 425-9700. We offer free initial screenings and can start you on a treatment plan if needed to make sure your body is performing at its optimal level.