Aquacare/Fitness Forum Physical Therapy

By Dylan Nibblett, PTA

As the weather becomes colder, ice and snow begin to pose serious risks for slips, falls, and other potential injuries. When it comes to the foot and ankle the most common injuries around this time of year are caused by slips and falls including ankle sprains, stress fractures, and exacerbation of plantar fasciitis symptoms.

One of the biggest mistakes made in the winter is improper footwear. Be sure to wear sneakers or well-fitting boots with good traction. Wearing footwear that is too tight or lacks arch support could lead to foot and plantar fascia pain.

Here are some other tips to help prevent slips and falls:

• Try to only walk in well-lit areas when dark to be able to possibly spot potential hazards or ice patches.
• If snow is present, try to shovel it or have it shovel as quickly as possible to avoid ice forming.
• If you have somewhere to go, give yourself extra time! Slow down, take smaller steps, and once again scan your surroundings for hazards.
• When possible, walk with your hands free to stabilize yourself as needed. Also use handrails when available.
• Last but not least, ask for help if you do feel you may have injured yourself, or if you are feeling uncertain or unsafe when walking.

If you have previously had ankle injuries such as sprains, it is important to stay on top of your injuries. Once you have sprained your ankle you are more likely to sprain it again due to lack of stability and possibly strength of the muscles of the foot and ankle.

Whether you want to prevent injuries or need help recovering from an injury, physical therapy can help you with one-on-one individualized treatment and a home program to last you the long winter months.

Schedule a free 30-minute evaluation with one of our physical therapists online or by calling the location nearest you.