How to Avoid Some of the Most Common Winter Injuries

The frigid weather has arrived in western Washington and, before you know it, there'll be icy and snow, too.

It's a challenging time of year to stay healthy, there are some very common injuries that typically occur during the winter months that are preventable.

Slips and Falls

With the amount of rain we experience in the Pacific Northwest, slips and falls are an especially common occurrence. This is made worse in the winter when even a thin layer of moisture can freeze and become ice, putting everyone at risk of falling and becoming injured.

Being mindful of how you walk, using handrails and shortening your steps are all important ways to help you keep your balance. However, there are other factors that could put you at greater risk of falling which your care provider can help you address.

For instance, if you are experiencing vision loss, urinary incontinence or weakness in your motor skills, you're likely at greater risk of falling, increasing your chances for a severe injury. If you are experiencing any of these conditions, you should bring it up with your primary care provider to discuss treatment. You can schedule an in-person or virtual appointment via MyChart today.

You should also take steps to prevent falls at home with these important tips from Dr. Marissa Black with EvergreenHealth Geriatric Care.

If you do slip and fall, it's important that you seek the appropriate care:

• If you experience a sprain or strain, you may want to seek urgent care. Those over 65 years old are more at risk of experiencing a severe injury during a fall. EvergreenHealth offers virtual Urgent Care as well as eight convenient locations across the Eastside.
• If you fall and experience extreme pain or are unable to get up, you may need emergency care and should call 9-1-1 or go to your nearest emergency department.

Back Strains

Winter weather can result in strenuous chores and activities like snow shoveling, windshield scraping or moving and placing heavy holiday decorations. To protect your back and neck during these activities, maintain a slight knee bend when lifting anything heavy and warming up your muscles ahead of time by stretching.

If you do experience a back or neck injury that requires more advanced treatment, the physiatry team at EvergreenHealth's Sport & Spine Care is ready to work with you to diagnose and treat spine, muscle and nerve pain as well as degenerative conditions or injuries.

Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

Because it is an odorless and colorless gas, carbon monoxide is an especially dangerous hazard. Inhaling the gas decreases the amount of oxygen being absorbed into your blood. This can lead to heart and brain issues, with symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning typically including headache, nausea, dizziness and fatigue.

Carbon monoxide poisoning increases during the colder months because of an uptick in the use of heating tools and devices that produce the gas. These include fireplaces and gas-powered heaters. To avoid carbon monoxide poisoning, ensure your devices are properly ventilated and have your home heating system inspected at least once a year. Every household should also have a carbon monoxide alarm, which should also be tested regularly.