Holiday Safety Tips from OrthoCarolina

As seen on WBTV, OrthoCarolina's own Dr. Robert Morgan provides Charlotteans with a few tips and tricks to safely tackle all of their holiday activities this year and avoid unnecessary stress or pesky injuries.

Tips to avoid unnecessary stress/injury this Holiday Season

• During the holidays, we do a lot of heavy lifting that our bodies aren’t used to most of the year. 
  1. When moving heavy or awkward objects, it’s important to first know your limits. Don’t try to lift something your body isn’t able to, causing potential injury. Instead, wait and ask a neighbor, family member, or friend. Many people even turn to Nextdoor and other neighbor apps for assistance.
  2. When putting up or taking down decorations, take it slow. Think through the process before jumping right in. 
  3. In every scenario, it’s important to wear the right clothing and supportive shoes.
• We also get invited to participate in fun and new activities – sometimes involving snow or ice – especially for those weekend warriors out there. 
  1. If partaking in winter activities, always stretch and warm up beforehand. 
  2. Wear rubber-soled shoes with good traction to prevent slips and falls. If you have unsteady balance utilize an assistive device such as a cane or front-wheel walker.
  3. Know your limits and when it may be best to take it slow or sit something out. 
  4. If icy conditions are expected at home, prepare by applying salt to any walkways around your house. Remember that others may not be as conscientious when you are in an unfamiliar environment.
• Accidents happen – people get hurt. It wouldn’t be the holidays without a bit of drama. If someone in your family or at your holiday event gets injured, know the nearest OrthoCarolina Urgent Care. That’s right, OrthoCarolina has its own urgent care clinics throughout the Carolinas that are specific to ortho needs, including fractures, dislocations, sprains and strains, acute pain, injured joints, and more. 

Special thanks additionally goes out to Dr. Edward Walker who helped behind the scenes on this piece

This information is provided as an educational service and is not intended to serve as medical advice. If you are seeking specific orthopedic advice or assistance, please consult with your OrthoCarolina physician or locate one in your area through OrthoCarolina’s website at www.OrthoCarolina.com.