Howard: Avoiding Winter Falls With Orthotic Devices

Howard: Avoiding Winter Falls With Orthotic Devices

NEWSLETTER

AVOIDING FALLS WITH YOUR ORTHOTIC DEVICE DURING THE WINTER MONTHS

slogging through deep snow and sub-zero temperatures in the north, or contending with dampness, chill, and muddy conditions in the south, it’s important to take care of your feet all winter long. You’ll want them to be healthy and ready for action when spring finally arrives.” Wearing sturdy shoes with good traction will significantly decrease our likelihood of slipping. You can also get a pair of ski or walking poles to help keep your balance. As an added bonus, these poles will also help you burn extra calories since your upper body is getting a workout too. You can also add slip-on spikes to your boots on the extra icy days, to reduce your risk of slips and falls. It is important to add in any additional assists, as needed. Snow and ice are the main culprits for many injuries during the wintertime, which is why it is important to add to your stability. Ice cleats or rubber-soled boots can provide you with grip and support. Using a cane or crutch can also help in remaining steady on frozen terrain. Our trained CPOs can help you figure out if an additional assist would benefit you. (continued inside)

Decrease Your Risk of Falling with These Tips! The winter season is upon us, and with that comes snow, ice, and unsteady terrains. With all the snow shoveling, icy streets, and chilled weather, it is important to understand how

Roger Howard, CPO, Director

you can decrease your risk of falling and get themost out of your orthotic device this winter. The ice increases the possibility of slipping, and the frigid air can create aches and pains all on its own. Fortunately, our CPOs can help correct the pain you may be feeling and decrease your risk of sustaining a fall-related injury. If you’ve been experiencing discomfort due to winter-related activities and you’d like more assistance in decreasing your fall risk, contact Howard Orthotics and Prosthetics today! Orthotic devices during the winter months. Perhaps one of the best precautions you can make during the winter months is investing in a pair of boots with good grip. In fact, the American Podiatric Medical Association states that “Whether you’re

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CHANGING YOUR PACE TO AVOID FALLS

a bit forward can help in keeping your balance and avoiding injury – think of it as if you’re doing more of a shuffle. Keeping your arms slightly in front of you can also be beneficial for balance purposes, and turning your feet slightly outward while walking on snow or ice. This footing, while it may feel a bit awkward, will actually increase traction and avoid slipping Looking for more assistance? If you are looking for more tips on how to avoid falls during these winter months, or if you’d like advice on how additional assists may benefit you, don’t hesitate to contact Howard Orthotics and Prosthetics today. We will help you stay safe this winter season!

(continued from outside) The way you walk can actually prevent your risk of accidentally slipping on ice. One of the most common injuries people sustain during the winter is a sprain, strain, or even fracture from an unexpected fall on ice. But there is a way to avoid it! First and foremost, concentration is everything when walking on snowy or icy ground. It is important to be cautious and to simply walk – not walk and text, not walk and search through your purse, etc… simply walk. If you are careful and alert, you will be able to better steady yourself if you begin to slip. When walking, it is also best to keep a slow pace with short steps. While it may seem natural to stand upright, leaning

Source: https://www.apma.org/winterfootcare

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Try this simple exercise to help you feel better... Always consult your physical therapist or physician before starting exercises you are unsure of doing. EXERCISE ESSENTIALS TOE CURL Sit with one foot forward resting on it’s heel. Curl your toes down and hold for 10 seconds, then flex your toes up and hold for 10 seconds. Repeat 5 times on each foot.

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Save these in a place where you can easily use them as needed. Watch for more exercises in our next issue. SAVE Please share these exercises with friends and family members to help them stay healthy and free from pain.

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This brace I can put on in the morning and wear all day! Success Story - Carol L.

“I am very happy that you made a brace that is very comfortable and I am able to wear something that doesn’t hurt. I couldn’t wear the other brace I had, this brace I can put on in the morning and wear all day. I am very satisfied with the results! It is nice to have two legs to stand on once again! Success Story - James C. “Results. Although I realize that they are not final, they are most encouraging to date. I find my greatest satisfaction is being able to walk side by side (although not running yet!) with my grandchildren. It is nice to have two legs to stand on once again. Thank you all at Howard Orthotics and Prosthetics.”

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PRODUCT FEATURE BALANCE™ FOOT S

Introducing Balance Foot S. Combining a soft heel bumper, a unique C-shape, a wide foot blade with a split toe and an optional torison unit, Balance Foot S provides the stability, security and safety that K2 users demand, while elevating the K2 experience to the next level. 1. C-Shape. Designed to enhance range of ankle motion to experience easier sit-to-stand and a more fluid, natural gait. 2. Heel Bumper. Cushioned, stable composite foam heel bumper gradually tapers and stiffens for smooth rollover and push off. 3. Wide Foot Blade. Designed for slow tomedium walking speeds. 4. Split Toe. Provides multi-axial stability while on a variety of everyday surfaces. 5. Optional Torison Unit. Helps restore lost rotational capabilities, reduce shear forces and absorb vertical shock. 6. Optional Unity Sleeveless Vacuum. Helps reduce volume flunctuations and shear forces within the socket.

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