Slips and falls are common during the winter due to wet sidewalks, slopes and other surfaces. Dr. Rodrigo Gallo, traumatologist and foot and ankle subspecialist at our clinic, says that fractures, sprains and contusions after a fall should be evaluated by a specialist, as they often require specialized treatment and rehabilitation for a full recovery.

How to get up properly after a fall?

In the event of a fall, it is essential to get up correctly so as not to aggravate any injury you may have suffered. In this scenario, our specialist recommends:

1. Before trying to get up, assess your condition. Take a moment and analyze if you have any severe pain, dizziness or are unable to move. If so, wait and/or ask for help.
2. If you decide it is safe to stand, roll onto your side to turn onto your side. This is less painful to the body than trying to stand up straight from the back.
3. Support yourself on your hands and knees. From the side position, use your hands to slowly push yourself up into a quad position (hands and knees).
4. Find a stable support. Look around and locate a firm surface such as a wall, chair or bench. Move your body slowly toward that surface to use it as a support.
5. Stand up slowly. Rest your hands on the stable surface and bring one leg forward, placing your foot firmly on the floor. Use your arms to slowly push yourself up, leaning on your front leg.
6. Once you are semi-inclined, use the strength of your legs to stand up, maintaining support from the stable surface if necessary.
7. Once standing, rest and recheck your condition. Take a few minutes to make sure you are not dizzy or in severe pain. Do not rush and proceed with caution. If you experience any worrisome symptoms, seek medical help immediately.

Additional tips in case of injury:

1. If you have been injured, wash the wounds with soap and water. Cover them with a clean bandage to prevent infection.
2. If there is swelling, apply ice to the affected area for 15 to 20 minutes every hour to reduce inflammation.
3. If you have injured a limb, try to elevate and stabilize it in order to go to the emergency service of the nearest health center. Avoid putting weight on the affected area if you suspect a fracture or sprain.
4. In case of mild pain, take over-the-counter analgesics such as paracetamol or ibuprofen to relieve pain and inflammation. Go to the medical center for proper evaluation and treatment.

Remember:

Wear shoes with slip-resistant soles to reduce the likelihood of slipping. Avoid distractions such as cell phones, keep your eyes on the ground while walking to identify hazards and slippery areas, walk slowly and with short strides on wet surfaces, and use canes or umbrellas for extra stability when moving on the street.

Dr. Rodrigo Gallo
Traumatologist and foot and ankle subspecialist at Clínica Ricardo Palma