Tips For Walking Safely On The Ice From Our Evansville Chiropractor

Ice is a dangerous thing! Every year thousands of people fall on the ice and end up with bumps and bruises, and they are the lucky ones! Did you know that falls are the most common cause of brain injury? Falls have also been known to cause broken bones, lacerations, and so much more. Falls, thankfully, usually aren’t all that serious, but they can lead to pain that could have you running to the doctor. Luckily, Integrated Physical Medicine is here to help! Our Evansville chiropractor has your safety in the forefront of his mind, and that is why we have come up with the following list of tips for walking safely on the ice:

Wear the right shoes- Avoid heels or shoes with smooth soles. Instead, pick boots or shoes that can provide you with more traction on slippery surfaces.
Stick to designated walkways- Designated walkways are more likely to be cleared of ice, and therefore you are less likely to fall when you walk on them. Walking off the beaten path can be hazardous.
Don’t put your hands in your pockets- It may be tempting to keep your fingers warm by putting them in your pockets, but when your hands are in your pockets, you change your center of gravity and decrease your ability to balance. Wear gloves and keep your hands free from your pockets!
Slow and steady wins the race- Walk slowly and carefully, taking short steps, and always keep your eye out on the path ahead of you.
Fall the right way- If you do happen to fall on the ice, fall the right way. Wear a heavy coat to cushion your fall, try to relax your muscles, and try to avoid falling on your spine, wrists, knees, or head.