6 Tips to Avoid Injuries and Falls this Fall

As the leaves fall and the temperature continues dropping, it’s important to take extra precautions to prevent falls or injuries.

Good Shepherd Rehabilitation’s experts provide some practical tips to help keep you safe and active this autumn.

• When raking leaves or doing yard work, take frequent breaks to avoid muscle strain and fatigue.
  
• Make sure you wear appropriate, well-fitting footwear with good traction to prevent slips on wet leaves or uneven surfaces.
  
• When collecting leaves or picking up heavier items, bend at your hips and knees, not your back.
  
• If you’re continuing to exercise outside (i.e., hiking or jogging), incorporate stretching and strength training into your daily routine to improve flexibility, strength and balance. Need some guidance on a fitness program? Contact us.
  
• Review your medications with your healthcare provider to ensure they don’t cause dizziness or imbalance.
  
• Be careful with ladders. If you need to use a ladder to clean up outside your home, check that the ladder is in working order. Make sure it is set up on a level surface, is free of slippery debris and that someone holds it steady for you. By following these tips, you can reduce your risk of falls and enjoy all the activities that autumn has to offer.

Good Shepherd Rehabilitation offers a range of outpatient services, including physical medicine and rehabilitation (PM&R) physician services, physical therapy, occupational therapy and speech therapy, throughout eastern Pennsylvania to help you maintain and enhance your mobility.

Our team is here to support you on your journey to a safer, healthier and more active life.

Call 1.888.447.3422 (44-REHAB) to request an appointment or talk to one of our rehab experts.