Navigating the Winter Ice and What to do if You Fall

Ice. Ice. Everywhere!

Winter in Burnsville, MN often includes fluctuating temperatures, snow, ice, and sleet, and that means ice on city sidewalks and streets. And, as careful as you might be, you may take a fall. 

But this is Minnesota. We can’t let a bit of ice keep us in the house. We need to walk, go ice skating, ice fishing, and embrace the True North!

Tips for Winter Walking and Not Slipping

Taking precautions to avoid slipping and falling is your best defense for a safe winter. The Canadian Chiropractic Association shares excellent tips for preventing slips and falls: 

• Choose the right footwear 
• Plan ahead - give yourself extra time
• Don’t be distracted
• Be on the lookout for ice
• Be prepared
• Use support, like handrails, when available
• Walk like a penguin

You may want to consider spikes or traction system grips if you know you will be on the ice. Part of considering the right footwear means looking for shoes or boots with the best grips. Also, rubber soles have more traction than leather-soled or high-heeled shoes. Consider these methods to avoid falling. 

We have to shovel our walks and driveways, but it is the first place you can fall when leaving your house. Stretching and preparing yourself ahead of time is key. We have more tips on the right way to shovel so as not to hurt yourself.

Common Injuries from Ice Falls

There is no doubt that a fall on the ice almost always hurts. A slip or fall can cause several common injuries including but exclusively:

• Head pain
• Back pain
• Neck pain
• Nerve injury
• Hip pain
• Knee Pain
• Hand/wrist pain
• Shoulder pain
• Broken or bruised bones

The slip will often call nerve and muscle injuries. But, when you hit the ground, that can cause more bruising and possibly broken bones.

Chiropractic Treatment for a Fall

We encourage you to come in as soon as possible for a full evaluation. Your injuries may require X-rays, adjustments, massage, and physical therapy. Be careful of doing too much until you have been evaluated. 

At home, you will want to ice your swollen muscles, heat the sore muscles, take an Epsom salt bath, stretch, and rest. 

Once you are feeling better, don’t let the winter fall keep you in the house. We are in Minnesota, after all, so let’s embrace winter!

Photo by Micaela Parente on Unsplash

Updated February 27, 2023