Preventing Ice Injuries

Lots of rain and falling temperatures has left many parts of Southeast Ohio looking like a skating rink.

Ice is everywhere and the slippery situation has been causing a lot of problems for people. Trauma injury prevention and outreach coordinator for Genesis, Rebecca Geyer said they have seen an increase in ice related injuries.

“Just recently we’ve seen an increase in the amount of falls that we’ve seen from the ice related weather. So falls have always been our leading mechanism of injury here at genesis. But just recently that has increased.”

Geyer says your wrists, spine, hips and femur are especially prone to fracture. Geyer told us common slick spots include slopes, or places where water tends to pond. Thawing and refreezing is also a big problem. Geyer told us taking preventative measures are incredibly important during freeze events.

“Some of the easiest prevention tips that you can do is keep some of the salt right on your front porch, so you can use that when you’re seeing the ice. Or you can keep little bags of it in your pocket to take with you if you’re out and about and you see some more icy spots.”

If you are interested in learning about preventing falls on the ice, Genesis is offering free classes to the public called, “Matter of Balance.” Geyer says it includes an exercise component and fears related to falling. To enroll in some of the classes and learn more about times call Genesis Healthcare Marketing: (740)454-5913