STAY SAFE THIS HOLIDAY SEASON: TIPS TO PREVENT COMMON HOLIDAY INJURIES
Hi, I’m Jason Rudd, a board-certified orthopedic specialist with AVALA Ortho.
I am considered a trained expert in treating a wide range of issues involving the muscles, bones, and joints around the body, including bone sprains and fractures, dislocations and diseased joints, and tears in the ligaments, tendons, and meniscuses.
BACK INJURIES FROM LIFTING
Lifting heavy boxes of decorations or gifts the wrong way can result in back injuries such as muscle strains or even more serious issues like disc herniations. To prevent this:
- Always lift with your legs, not your back.
- Keep the object close to your body and avoid twisting while lifting.
- If a box is too heavy, ask for help or use a dolly.
FALLS FROM DECORATING
Hanging Christmas lights or decorating tall trees often involves climbing ladders, which can lead to falls. These falls can result in fractures of the foot, ankle, wrist, or arm. To reduce the risk:
- Use a sturdy ladder and have someone hold it steady.
- Avoid overreaching; reposition the ladder as needed.
- Ensure you’re working on a flat, dry surface.
TOY-RELATED INJURIES
Trying out your children’s new toys, such as scooters or RipStiks, might seem fun, but it can also lead to falls and broken bones. Stay safe by:
- Wearing protective gear like helmets and wrist guards.
- Testing toys in safe, open areas away from obstacles.
- Supervising children when they’re trying out new toys.
GIFT-WRAPPING MISHAPS
Wrapping presents often involves sharp tools like scissors and tape dispensers, which can lead to deep cuts and even injuries to nerves, muscles, or tendons. To avoid accidents:
- Use scissors with blunt tips and keep fingers away from blades.
- Work in a well-lit area to see what you’re doing.
- Take your time and avoid rushing through wrapping tasks.
AVALA ORTHO IS HERE WHEN YOU NEED US
While we hope you have a safe and injury-free holiday season, accidents can happen. If you do experience an injury, our team at AVALA Ortho is here to provide expert care and get you back to enjoying the festivities as quickly as possible.
Remember, Christmas can be the most wonderful time of the year, but it’s important to take precautions to protect yourself and your loved ones. Stay safe and happy holidays from all of us at AVALA Ortho!
