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Ask Dr. Vieder
LAKES URGENT CARE
When your health concerns can't wait.
My best friend was just shoveling his driveway, slipped, fell and broke a rib. What can I do at home to help prevent outside
winter accidents?
Slip and fall accidents are inevitable during winter months. Wearing footwear with grooved rubber soles will provide additional traction when conditions
are slippery or icy. It is important to avoid rushing when you need to clear snow from your walkway or driveway. Make sure you have the correct type of
tools for the job. A snow blower, wide shovel, plus salt or melting crystals help make a slippery surface safer to maneuver.
How can I help my kids avoid slip and fall accidents inside and outside the house?
Kids are always in a rush. It's no surprise that running, walking quickly and without proper footwear on a wet or slippery surface can cause a fall. Kids and
adults should be sure to use caution upon exiting a vehicle. If need be, hold onto the vehicle for added support. When on a slippery surface, bend slightly
forward and shorten your stride or shuffle your feet for better stability.
What are the best tips to avoid slip and fall accidents at work?
Take small careful steps instead of large ones. When getting out of a vehicle, step, don't jump. When possible, use handrails, handles - anything that will
help keep your balance. Don't carry large loads while walking on snow or ice. If you are carrying a load on an icy walk and feel yourself falling, toss your
load to break the fall with your arms. While walking, retain stability by keeping your hands out of pockets.
If I fall, how do I know if I should go to the ER or an urgent care for treatment?
Falls account for over 8 million hospital emergency room visits each year, representing the leading cause of visits. If you have
fallen, wait a moment and do a "self-assessment" rather than quickly getting up. Most bumps and bruises do not require
medical attention. However, if pain from a fall persists beyond a few hours or you are unable to bear weight or move an upper
extremity without pain, be sure to get evaluated by a physician. If the fall should cause a broken bone with skin disruption, get
emergency care immediately. Most other sprains, strains or fractures can be safely treated by your primary care physician or at
a certified urgent care. A certified urgent care can complete x-rays and initiate fracture care and casting, avoiding a visit to the
emergency department.
For more info, visit the Ask Dr. Vieder page at LakesUrgentCare.com
Dr. Sanford Vieder, DO, FACOEP, Medical Director at Lakes Urgent Care, West Bloomfield
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February 26 • 2015
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