The next winter storm is barreling down on the Northeast and PIX11 wants to inform their audience about how to safely walk on snow and ice and avoid injuries from shoveling snow. According to the CDC, 1 million Americans are injured every year from slips and falls on snow and ice. Over 11,000 injuries are reported annually to emergency rooms from shoveling snow.

Dr. Karena Wu, Board-Certified Clinical Specialist in Orthopedic Physical Therapy joined Hazel Sanchez and Dan Mannarino this morning on the PIX11 plaza to discuss this topic. Dr. Wu reminds everyone to slow down and pay attention when walking in these conditions. She also describes how to walk like a penguin to minimize the risk of slipping and falling on ice: arms out, legs out, and knees soft (think athletic stance) with a shorter, wider step length and a flat foot contact. The main injuries from slips and falls are due to blunt trauma and typically involve the back, head, joints, fractures and soft tissue sprains. The anchors also asked about how to avoid injuries when shoveling snow. Dr. Wu reminds us to keep your core engaged, keep a flat back, use the legs and keep the weight close so you do not overexert yourself. The low back, shoulders and soft tissues are commonly injured when shoveling snow due to the overuse and overexertion.

ActiveCare Physical Therapy treats all orthopedic conditions from overuse, trauma, post surgery, car accidents and work related injuries. Call us at 212.777.4374 or email us at staff@bestptnyc.com if you would like to schedule with our expert physical therapists. All therapists have been trained under Dr. Karena Wu.