How to avoid slips and falls this Winter

In life, unexpected slips and falls can be more than just physical mishaps; they can serve as wake-up calls prompting us to reevaluate our choices and prioritise self-care. As someone who has experienced the lingering effects of a fall, I share my journey to recovery and offer insights into preventing and overcoming such incidents.

So as it happens, I don’t bounce so well these days. Slips and trips when you are younger mainly hurt your dignity but as you get older the aches and pains seem to linger that little bit longer. It was a silly slip, pouring rain, wet moss and inappropriate shoes had me coming down with such a bump.

Slips, trips and falls are some of the most common causes of injury at work in the UK and globally, accounting for on average 40 per cent of all reported major injuries in UK workplaces alone, with 95% of major slips result in broken bones.

So with this in mind, I want to share some preventative measures and some solutions should you be unfortunate slip over.

Prevention is Key:

1. Footwear Matters: Wearing appropriate shoes is crucial to prevent slips. Invest in slip-resistant footwear, like Vionic’s Arrival Trainer with VIO-GRIP technology, providing enhanced traction on wet surfaces. These slip resistent shoes not only offer style but also comfort, making them perfect for rainy days. These are my new “go to shoes” for walking in the rain or days when I am looking to get my steps in. Check out my review
2. Posture Awareness: Good posture plays a significant role in preventing falls. Consider practices like the Alexander Technique to enhance body awareness, correct walking posture, and reduce the risk of accidents caused by rushing from place to place without considering movement and posture.
3. Fitness and Weight: Maintain a dog level of fitness with activities like yoga and pilates to improve flexibility and core strength. Strong core muscles can be a saving grace in preventing serious injuries during a fall.
4. Bone Health: Ensure strong bones to resist fractures. Regular assessments, such as dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA), can help diagnose and monitor bone health, reducing the risk of osteoporosis-related injuries.
5. Mindfulness in Movement: Practicing mindfulness while walking can significantly reduce the risk of accidents. Follow these seven tips for mindful walking, focusing on body awareness and engagement to ensure safety.

7 Tips for Mindful Walking

1. Wear good, comfortable walking shoes
2. Keep your eyes focused 5-10 feet in front of you
3. Avoid wearing headphones to be more aware of your surroundings
4. Swing your arms from your shoulders, not your elbows
5. To improve stability, pretend you are walking on either side of a traffic line
6. Tune in with your abs every 5-10 minutes, are they engaged? This will eventually become an unconscious action
7. As you step forward, push ground away and back, through your big toe, engaging your glutes

Recovery Strategies After a Fall:

1. Bruises and Swelling: Treat bruises and swelling with homeopathic remedies like arnica, both in cream and pill form. Consult with a homeopath for additional therapies to expedite the healing process.
2. Therapeutic Assistance: Seek professional help from therapists specialising in pain and injury. Personal recommendations can guide you to the right expert to aid in recovery.
3. Gentle Exercise: Gradually incorporate gentle exercises, such as yoga or pilates, to rebuild core strength and address internal muscle injuries caused by the fall.

Conclusion: Accidents and injuries can serve as powerful messages urging us to slow down, be mindful, and prioritise self-care. Embracing these lessons can lead to improved overall wellbeing, allowing us to navigate life’s challenges with resilience and awareness. So, the next time life throws you a curveball, take it as an opportunity to pause, reflect, and invest in your own wellbeing.