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GET A GRIP, PREVENT THE SLIP
As we welcome 2009, with the cold and snowy season, we must be wary of more slippery conditions.
To stay fine in ’09, here are some physiotherapy tips for reducing the risk of slipping or falling at any time of year.
- Plant both feet securely on the ground before getting out of your car.
- Wear a good pair of lace-up walking shoes that support your feet and provide the cushioning necessary for your joints. Avoid high heels, slippers, and open-toed sandals.
- For icy conditions always use cane and crutches with large spiked tips.
- Sit rather than stand while dressing.
- Install handrails and grab-bars in bathrooms and stairways.
- Concentrate on what you’re doing while you’re doing it. Move at a speed that feels comfortable.
- Avoid taking unnecessary balance risks. Don’t stand on furniture – use a sturdy stepladder.
- Avoid hyper extending your neck since extending the neck backwards may cut off circulation to the brain.
- Beware of pets! Your feet can get caught in leashes, dogs can knock you down or you can trip over a sleeping pet.
- Slow down. Be conscious of risky situations and hazardous areas.
- Be physically active every day to improve posture, muscle strength and balance. Enroll in an exercise program to improve flexibility.
The risk of falling can be reduced dramatically when specific exercises are prescribed by a physiotherapist. An individualized treatment program can help regain strength, flexibility and endurance in a way that still feels safe and secure.
A physiotherapist can assess your physical status and provide appropriate recommendations for treatment. As part of the assessment, the physiotherapist will review your medical history and general physical condition, strength, flexibility, balance and gait (the way you walk). If you have a problem, a program of exercises and activities can be prescribed with an overall goal of improving your physical function and mobility.
INTRODUCING ERIN HVIDSTON
 We’re happy to introduce Erin Hvidston, the latest addition to the North Shore Sports Medicine Clinic staff. Erin brings a Master of Physical Therapy and Bachelor of Human Kinetics from UBC and a Bachelor of Education from Saskatoon’s University of Saskatchewan to the North Shore Sports Medicine Clinic. She won the UBC Physiotherapy Foundation of Canada Award for excellence in team research, as well as academic and athletic awards. You can find Erin at the Winter Club.
OUR GOALS
Physiotherapists are healthcare professionals who help people of all ages and lifestyles gain and maintain their desired level of active living and physical mobility. Our physios are here to assess, diagnose and treat your injury, condition and pain.
To make an appointment or for a physio assessment, call us at:
North Shore Winter Club
604.985.4135 loc. 273
Capilano University
604.990.7851
Deep Cove Physiotherapy
604.929.8444
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