What to Do If You Fall

After a fall, panic is often the first reaction. However, it's important to remain calm. How you react after a fall can cause more injuries than the fall itself. If you try to get up too quickly or in the wrong position you may make an injury worse. Here are the steps to follow:

• Take several deep breaths, assess the situation and determine if you are hurt.
• If you believe you are injured, do not attempt to get up. Instead, call 911 or get help from a family member, neighbor or other person nearby.
• If you feel strong enough to get up, follow the steps provided by the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons

Want to learn more? Visit the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons at www.orthoinfo.aaos.org.