As per the National Safety Council (NSC), over 8 million individuals sought emergency room treatment for injuries caused by falls in 2019. Falls, regardless of the context, pose significant dangers. However, falling down stairs can lead to particularly severe injuries.
When someone falls on stairs, they typically endure a greater distance of descent compared to falling on a flat surface. Additionally, multiple points of impact can occur during the fall. Given the high number and severity of injuries resulting from stair-related falls, prioritizing stair safety is crucial in both residential and occupational settings.
Possible Injuries from Falling Down a Flight of Stairs
The range of injuries that can occur from falling down the stairs is extensive. The most common injuries are typically lower body injuries, followed by head and neck wounds. According to a 2017 study published in The American Journal of Emergency Medicine, approximately one-third of stair-related fall injuries consist of sprains and strains. Let’s explore some of the frequently encountered injuries resulting from a fall on the stairs.
Minor Injuries
- Sprains: Joint injuries caused by the stretching or tearing of ligaments in the knee or ankle.
- Strains: Discomfort in muscles of the arms, legs, back, or neck due to stretching or tearing.
- Bruises: The buttocks often bear the brunt of the impact and are commonly bruised during a stair fall.
- Minor Cuts and Scrapes: Contact with stair treads or railings during a fall can lead to these superficial injuries.
Severe Injuries
- Deep Lacerations: Some cuts may be severe enough to require stitches or other medical treatment.
- Fractures: Bones in the foot, ankle, shoulder, scapula, or hip are commonly affected and may break due to the impact.
- Head Injuries: Serious falls can result in a concussion, skull fracture, or other traumatic brain injuries.
- Herniated or Slipped Disk: This condition occurs when the soft center of a disc between the neck or back bones protrudes through a crack in the tougher outer casing, causing pain and numbness. If you experience neck or back pain after falling down stairs, seek medical attention.
- Internal Bleeding: The impact of a fall can tear or crush blood vessels within the body, leading to internal bleeding.
It is important to note that this list is not exhaustive, and the severity of injuries can vary. If you experience a fall down the stairs, it is advisable to seek medical evaluation to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment.
What to Do After Falling Down
When you have experienced a fall down the stairs, it is important to know how to respond to minimize further injuries and seek appropriate help promptly. Here are some steps to take:
If you are alone after the fall:
- Use your cell phone to call for help, or shout out to attract attention.
- Bang a shoe or any hard object against the stairs or floor to draw attention from nearby individuals.
- If you are able, try to move into a safe and comfortable position while waiting for help. If possible, move away from the stairs onto a flat surface.
- However, if you suspect moving might worsen your injuries, it is best to lie still and await assistance.
Once you or others have assessed your injuries:
- Apply an ice pack to areas experiencing minor pain to help reduce swelling.
- Consider taking over-the-counter pain medication, like ibuprofen, to alleviate discomfort and reduce inflammation.
- For severe injuries such as broken bones, open wounds, or head trauma, seek immediate emergency medical treatment.
- If you experience mild to moderate pain or injuries that do not improve within a few days, it is advisable to consult your doctor or a medical professional for further evaluation and guidance.
Remember, seeking medical attention and following professional advice are crucial for proper recovery after a fall down the stairs.
How to Recover from a Fall from the Stairs
Recovering after a fall down the stairs requires careful attention and appropriate measures. Here are some guidelines to aid in the recovery process:
- Rest – Allow your body time to heal by getting sufficient rest. Minor injuries to joints, bones, or muscles will often improve with rest.
- Ice and Heat Therapy – To reduce pain and bruising, alternate between applying ice packs and using heat therapy. Ice can help with swelling and inflammation, while heat can provide soothing relief.
- Over-the-counter Medication – Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen can help alleviate discomfort and reduce inflammation. Follow the recommended dosage and consult a healthcare professional if needed.
- Seek Medical Attention for Serious Injuries – If your fall resulted in severe injuries, such as fractures or potential spinal cord injuries, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention. Emergency room visits or surgical interventions may be necessary. Fractured bones might require immobilization using a cast or brace, while more severe cases may require corrective surgery.
Remember, the severity of injuries can vary, and it is important to prioritize your well-being by seeking appropriate medical attention and following the advice of healthcare professionals during the recovery process.
Conclusion
Falls on staircases are a common cause of injury affecting individuals across different age groups. These injuries can range from minor sprains, strains, and bruises to more severe conditions that necessitate immediate medical intervention, surgical procedures, or long-term rehabilitation.
Fortunately, many stair-related accidents can be prevented by implementing simple safety measures. Utilizing custom hand rails that offer great support and taking one’s time while navigating the stairs can significantly reduce the risk of accidents. Installing safety features like non-slip treads or stair nosing can further enhance safety and minimize the likelihood of falls. By prioritizing stair safety and implementing preventive measures, the occurrence of stair-related accidents can be significantly reduced.