Slips, falls, and wipe-outs are more common during winter months, when wet pavement, icy surfaces, and bulky footwear increase the risk of losing balance. While some falls result in minor bumps or bruises, others can cause serious injuries that require emergency care.
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At Ally Medical Emergency Room, our emergency physicians regularly evaluate fall-related injuries to determine whether further testing or treatment is needed.
“Falls can be deceptive. Even when an injury doesn’t seem severe at first, internal injuries or fractures may still be present,” Dr. Jeremy Kenter, Chief Medical Officer, said.
Common Injuries Caused by Falls
Falls can affect people of all ages and may result in:
Broken bones or fractures
Sprains or ligament injuries
Head injuries or concussions
Back or spinal injuries
Hip injuries, especially in older adults
Internal bleeding or organ injury
Some injuries may not cause immediate pain, which is why proper evaluation is important.
When a Fall Requires Emergency Care
You should seek emergency care after a fall if any of the following occur:
Head impact or loss of consciousness
Persistent or worsening pain
Inability to stand, walk, or bear weight
Visible deformity of an arm or leg
Severe swelling or bruising
Numbness or tingling
Confusion, dizziness, or vomiting
Bleeding that won’t stop
Why ER Evaluation Matters After a Fall
Emergency rooms are equipped to quickly assess injuries that may not be visible from the outside. At Ally Medical ER, physicians can:
Order on-site X-rays or CT scans
Evaluate for head or spinal injuries
Provide pain management
Stabilize fractures or joint injuries
Coordinate follow-up care if needed
Quick imaging and evaluation help ensure injuries are diagnosed accurately.
What to Expect During an ER Visit
Patients evaluated after a fall may receive:
A physical examination
Imaging such as X-rays or CT scans
Wound care if needed
Splinting or immobilization
Observation for head injury symptoms
Our team works efficiently to identify injuries and begin appropriate treatment.
Preventing Slips and Falls
To reduce the risk of falls:
Wear shoes with good traction
Walk carefully on wet or icy surfaces
Use handrails when available
Keep walkways clear of debris
Even with precautions, accidents can still happen. Emergency care is essential when injuries are serious or symptoms worsen.