BUFFALO, N.Y. (WBEN) The ice storm that glazed Western New York with up to a half inch of ice Wednesday and Thursday has led to a rash of weather-related injuries.
"We've definitely seen an increase in a number of injuries from people
falling," said Dr. Shyamal Majithia, Medical Director at Western New York
Immediate Care.
"There have been a variety of injuries. Some were broken bones,
dislocated joints, and some sprains and strains." Additionally, he said
there has been a lot of bumps and bruises.
Winter weather can bring a variety of injuries from snow shoveling and
sports such as skiing and sledding. But ice, Dr. Shyamal Majithia said is
among the most dangerous weather conditions.
"Even if you're being careful, I had people who were just standing, and they
suddenly slipped and fell because ice is so unpredictable."
You've likely heard the phrase, "walk like a penguin." That's the safest
way to walk on ice-covered surfaces such as driveways, sidewalks and
parking lots.
If someone falls, how do you know if you should be checked out by a doctor?
"We look for signs. If you have extreme pain in a joint or if you hit your head,
you should be checked out. Or, if you have significant swelling or bruising, or
if something just doesn't feel right, you should see a doctor to make sure
nothing major has happened."
Dr Majithia said he always suggests avoiding ice as much as possible, but
if you have to go out, wear well gripped shoes rather than sneakers or crocs.
"You never know when you're going to fall, and it's hard to predict how you're
going to fall because it happens so quickly."
