Original Article

By Joseph Alton MD

A few years ago, we certified as Advanced Wilderness Expedition Providers, and many of the training scenarios involved dealing with victims who were injured in falls. Whether you’re on a backcountry trail or in your own bathroom, a Fall can seriously damage you, causing orthopedic injuries, bleeding, traumatic brain injuries, and more. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that one in five falls results in a major injury. All told, falls account for millions of emergency room visits and over 800,000 hospitalizations a year in the U.S.

Many risk factors exist that predispose people to fall. On the trail, loss of Balance on uneven terrain and poorly supported backpacks could be to blame. Badly-fitting footwear leading to blisters and pain may also play a part. Essentially, anything that affects walking and balance may cause you to stumble over an obstacle and sustain an injury. At home, clutter, uneven steps, wet bathroom floors, and poor lighting put you at risk.

Whether you’re in the wilderness or at home, the use of medications (especially sedatives, anti-depressants, or other psychotropics) can affect your alertness and balance, leading to a fall.