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Be careful, slippery! Mönchengladbach records more fall injuries
Onset of winter in Mönchengladbach: Increased number of falls and injuries in emergency rooms after slippery conditions and snow. Follow safety tips.
Be careful, slippery! Mönchengladbach records more fall injuries
A look back at winter shows that the cold months have their pitfalls. In Mönchengladbach the melting white has become visible on the streets, but the winter with its dangerous patches of black ice is far from over. The consequences of the onset of winter are clearly noticeable: emergency rooms are overcrowded and reports of mostly painful falls are increasing. RP Online reports, that from January 7th to 10th alone there was an increase in fall cases from 30 to 40, an increase of 33.3%.
A fall in the Hardt Forest was particularly dramatic, in which 54-year-old Ute Müller suffered serious facial injuries. Her husband, a doctor, immediately attended to the injured woman, who now has large red-blue bruises under her eyes and a plaster over her nose. The medical director of the central emergency department, Thorsten Reith, pointed out the risks that seemingly harmless falls can pose, especially for older people.
Types of injuries and emergency room visits
The number of injured people in emergency rooms has risen sharply. Regardless of whether it is the Elisabeth Hospital, the Neuwerk Hospital or the Maria Hilf Clinic – the injuries are similar everywhere, but the severity of the cases can vary. The most common injuries are fractures of the ankle, hip and arms when the ice hits. The German Society for Orthopedics and Trauma Surgery attributes the climbs to typical fall injuries such as broken bones and provides some helpful tips.
To avoid falls, the experts recommend, among other things, the so-called penguin gait: small steps, shifting your weight forward and placing your feet flat. Non-slip shoes or spikes provide additional support and safety. Older people in particular should make sure they have someone to accompany them in the dark and pay attention to good lighting.
Shovel snow carefully
But winter doesn't just bring dangerous slippery conditions. You also have to be careful when shoveling snow. To avoid back injuries, you should warm up and bend your knees when lifting. If you suffer from back problems, it is better to ask for help. Aside from the icy danger, strains and acute lumbago are also common injuries that can be risked when working in the snow.
While the cold remains an annoying companion, it is important to be aware of the dangers. The recommendations provided on the Internet should help you get through the winter safely. They are primarily aimed at minimizing the risk of falls and ensuring careful handling when shoveling snow. The emergency rooms in Mönchengladbach can prepare for an increased frequency of patients who need to be treated due to falls and injuries, especially at this time of year.
Conclusion: Pay attention to your safety on your winter trips. Walk carefully, wear good shoes and keep your hands free for better balance. So nothing stands in the way of a relaxed winter walk.