Ladder safety is crucial to everyone.  No matter who you are, you’re likely to be injured from a fall off a ladder.

Whiplash occurs when the body sustains damage after the head is snapped back and forth.  It’s not just something that happens after a car accident.  It can also happen if someone has a fall, for example, off a ladder.

Falls from ladders can also contribute to misalignments of the spine, bruises, sprains, stiffness, and pain or discomfort.

The best solution is to avoid falls by practicing ladder safety.  But accidents can happen to anyone.  If you fall off a ladder, your chiropractor can help.

Five Tips for Ladder Safety

Whether you’re washing windows, wiping out top cupboards, cleaning leaves out of rain gutters, or dusting window frames, use caution on ladders.  Never stand on the top step of a ladder.  If you still feel unsteady, ask someone else to brace the ladder.

Don’t stretch or lean over while on a ladder. What should you do if you can’t reach an area easily?  Get down, move the ladder closer, climb up, and try again.  Leaning over while on a ladder makes it easier for you to lose your balance and fall.

Consider a duster (or other tool) on a long stick or handle.  A tool like this will extend your reach so you won’t need to climb up on ladders as often.  And, when you are on the ladder, it will minimize the temptation to stretch and overreach.

Remember that chairs are not ladders.  They don’t have the stability of a properly braced stepladder or stepstool.  Don’t stand on chairs to reach high places.  It’s worth the time you use to fetch and place a ladder or stepstool.  Ladders and stepstools will provide you with proper support while you climb.

If you have a fall, it’s time to see your chiropractor as soon as possible.  We can put your body back in alignment and support you while you heal.  It might take some time—weeks, even months—before you feel the full effects of a fall.

Chiropractic care can improve your flexibility and minimize your risk of a fall.

If we haven’t seen you in some time, contact Sheppard Chiropractic Centre at (506) 635-8182 or (506) 847-7172 and let us help you to schedule your next appointment.