As winter approaches, Keele Physio wants to make sure you’re ready to stay safe and avoid injuries. Every year, the risk of injury increases during the winter months. In Canada, falls on ice are a leading cause of winter injuries. On top of that, car accidents also rise in the winter.
It’s important to know how to protect yourself before and after a winter fall. In this blog, we’ve outlined some common winter risks and shared tips to help prevent injuries. If you do get hurt, we also have suggestions for how to recover more easily.
Slips, Falls, and Other Injuries
Winter weather often means icy roads, slushy sidewalks, and slippery patches that can lead to falls. To prevent these, we recommend wearing proper footwear. Whether you’re walking, shoveling snow, or participating in winter sports, sturdy shoes can reduce your risk of slips and injuries like sprains, pulled muscles, and even concussions.
Car Accidents
Driving in winter can be dangerous. Snow, slush, and ice make the roads slippery, leading to more car accidents. Here are a few tips to stay safe:
- Clear snow and ice from your driveway and walkways. While it might not be fun, shoveling snow and salting your sidewalk will help prevent accidents around your home.
- Let your car warm up before driving. This can prevent your windows from fogging up, improving visibility.
- Stick to well-maintained roads. Popular routes are often cleared and sanded, making them safer to drive on.
What to Do If You Get Injured
Some winter injuries heal on their own, but more serious injuries may require physiotherapy or massage therapy to recover. If you fall or hurt yourself shoveling snow, Keele Physio is here to help. We offer treatments to relieve pain and help you recover so you can get back to your regular activities.
If you’re involved in a car accident, you may not feel the full effects of the injury right away. Sometimes pain sets in a few hours or even a day later. If that happens, our team at Keele Physio can help you recover from aches and pains, ensuring you get back to living your life.
Contact Keele Physio
This winter, stay safe on the roads, wear the right clothing, and seek physiotherapy if you need it. If you have any questions or want to know more about our services or winter safety tips, reach out to Keele Physio. We’re here to help!