Things to Consider When Walking in Snowy Weather

While attention has been drawn to the snowfall that is expected to affect our country for days, many of our major cities such as Istanbul have finally been covered in white. Although the sight and enjoyment of snowfall is very high, the ice and cold weather conditions that come with snow also bring orthopedic injuries. Reminding that low temperatures and slippery floors increase the risk of accidents due to slipping and falling, Orthopedics and Traumatology Specialist Prof. Dr. Budak Akman said that even simple activities such as going to work or walking to the car can become dangerous when it comes to winter conditions. Our expert pointed out the precautions that people who have to go out, especially the elderly, should take.

Stating that the most common orthopedic injuries in winter are usually caused by slippery floors, low temperatures and winter sports, Yeditepe University Kozyatağı Hospital Orthopedics and Traumatology Specialist “Slippery and icy floors make people vulnerable to falls. As a result, even a simple fall on the road, stairs or street can cause problems in the hip, knee or shoulder area that require long-term treatment.” Prof. Dr. Akman gave information about possible injuries and precautions to be taken.

Recovery after a fracture caused by a fall takes time

Stating that the most common injuries due to the increased risk of falling on slippery floors are fractures and dislocations due to falls, our expert explained the following: “Although snow is enjoyable and exciting, one should act without forgetting the dangerous conditions it can create. Because fractures, especially in elderly people, can cause serious consequences. Fractures and dislocations can occur anywhere in our body as a result of a fall, but wrist fractures are among the most common injuries we see. People try to protect themselves by reflexively putting their hands on the ground when falling. However, this movement can cause excessive load on the wrist and hand bones and lead to fractures. Shoulder fractures and dislocations are also common in the upper body, especially in older people. In our orthopedic practice, hip fractures after a fall on slippery ground, especially in elderly individuals, are injuries that can have serious consequences. A fracture of the hip bone usually requires surgery and may prevent the person from participating in life for a long time.”

Wrong Steps Can Cause Sprains

Reminding that a wrong step taken on slippery floors can result in an ankle sprain, our specialist said, “Another common orthopedic condition we encounter is ankle sprains and fractures. Again, we see ankle injuries on snowy and slippery ground. Ankle ligament injuries are injuries that may tend to become chronic if appropriate treatment is not received at the appropriate time and negatively affect the quality of life of the person.”

Things to Consider When Walking in Snowy Weather

Stating that only strong bones and joints are not enough to prevent orthopedic problems in winter, Prof. Dr. Akman listed the measures to be taken as follows.“

Choose Suitable Shoes: Wear shoes that prevent slipping, have serrated soles and support the ankle.

Walk Slowly and Carefully: Take small steps and take care to maintain your balance.

Do not keep your hands in your pockets: Free your hands to keep your balance in case of a fall.

Avoid Icy and Slippery Surfaces: If possible, choose roads sprinkled with sand or salted.

Get Support: Use tools such as a walking stick or ice scraper to improve your balance.

Be Visible: Use reflective clothing or a flashlight when walking in the dark..

Be Careful on Stairs: Use handrails for support and check every step.

Maintain Weight Balance: Avoid carrying heavy loads in your hands.

Increase your physical fitness: Improve your balance and muscle strength by exercising regularly.

Monitor the Weather: Heed blizzard or icing warnings and avoid going outside unnecessarily.