Expert Tips to Prevent Slips and Falls

Winter brings beautiful snow-covered landscapes and plenty of outdoor fun, but it also has hidden dangers—icy sidewalks, slippery driveways, and an increased risk of falls.

This time a year, I see at least one person a week with a wrist, forearm or shoulder injury related to slipping and falling on ice.

How can I prevent slipping and falling on ice?

While some falls are unavoidable, these simple winter safety tips can help reduce your risk:
✔ Wear proper footwear with good traction— something like Yaktraxs is a great investment
✔ Walk like a Penguin—take small steps and walk cautiously on icy surfaces
✔ Use handrails when available
✔ Keep your hands free—avoid carrying too much in one hand

✔ Sprinkle sand or salt on walkways to improve traction
✔ Tuck and roll — we know it happens quickly, but if you start to slip, bring your hands to your chest, tuck your head, and let your momentum carry you through to a roll.

What should I do if I fall?

If you fall on an outstretched hand, watch for these symptoms:

-Pain, swelling, and bruising around the wrist, arm or shoulder
-Tenderness to the touch
-Difficulty moving or straightening your fingers or lifting your arm
-Numbness or tingling in the fingers
-If the wrist, arm or shoulder looks out of alignment

*It’s important to seek medical attention if you have a fall and experience the above symptoms.

A doctor may order X-rays to determine if there is a fracture and decide on the best course of treatment. Treatment options may include:
-Casting or splinting for less severe fractures
-Surgical realignment for more complex breaks

Rehabilitation & recovery:

After a distal radius fracture, proper rehabilitation is key to regaining wrist strength and mobility. At Advanced Physical Therapy & Sports Medicine, our hand therapy team works closely with doctors to guide patients through a safe and effective recovery process.

-Pain & Swelling Management – Techniques to minimize discomfort and promote healing
-Custom Orthosis or Splints – To support and protect the wrist as it heals
-Guided Exercises – To restore wrist, hand, and forearm movement
-Functional Training – Helping patients return to daily activities at home, work, or school

*A supervised therapy program leads to faster recovery and improved function compared to a home exercise program—especially in patients over 60. This means less pain, better wrist mobility, and a quicker return to daily life!

Need help after a wrist, forearm, or shoulder injury?

Our hand therapy experts at Advanced Physical Therapy & Sports Medicine are here to help! We have convenient locations in Appleton, WI (Appleton North, Champion Center), Green Bay, WI (Green Bay Hand Therapy), and Marinette, WI.

If you have questions or need an appointment, contact us today.