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Winter Safety

Winter Slips and Falls: Injuries, First Steps and Recovery

5 November 2026 - By 365 Physiotherapy Dublin

Wet pavement with fallen autumn leaves and frost along the edges

Slipped on Ice or Wet Leaves? What to Do Next


Winter in Dublin brings wet leaves, frost on footpaths, dark evenings and slippery floors indoors. A slip can happen in a second. Some falls cause only minor bruising or soreness, while others cause a sprain, a fracture or a head injury. This guide covers which injuries are common, the first steps, the signs that need urgent medical help, and how physiotherapy can support your recovery.



When to Get Urgent Help


Call 112 or 999 if, after a fall, a person:

  • was knocked out and has not woken up, or cannot stay awake or keep their eyes open
  • has a fit (seizure)
  • has hit their head and has problems with vision, walking, balance, understanding, speaking or writing, or numbness or weakness in part of the body
  • has hit their head and has clear fluid coming from the ears or nose, bleeding from the ears, or bruising behind the ears
  • has been in a serious accident
  • cannot get up, or has severe pain in the hip or groin
  • has chest pain, difficulty breathing or heavy bleeding

    • Seek urgent assessment at an emergency department if there is:

  • a head injury while taking blood-thinning medication (such as warfarin), even if you feel well
  • a head injury where the person was knocked out but woke up, has been vomiting since the injury, is confused or has problems with memory or thinking, shows a change in behaviour (such as being more irritable), or has a headache that does not go away with painkillers
  • a head injury where the person has a blood-clotting disorder (such as haemophilia), has had brain surgery in the past, or was drinking alcohol or taking drugs just before the injury
  • a bone that looks bent or out of shape, or a limb that cannot take weight
  • severe pain, numbness or pins and needles after the fall

    • Seek urgent medical assessment the same day (your GP, an out-of-hours GP service or an emergency department) for a hot, red or very swollen joint, especially if you have a fever or feel unwell.


    Symptoms of a head injury usually start within 24 hours, but sometimes may not appear for up to 3 weeks, so do not treat the first day as a cut-off. Seek medical advice if a headache gets worse, or if you notice drowsiness, confusion, vomiting, vision changes or any change in behaviour.


    If you are not sure how serious it is, contact your GP or an out-of-hours GP service. Do not delay emergency care to contact a physiotherapy clinic.



    Common Injuries After a Winter Fall


  • Ankle sprains from rolling the foot on an uneven or icy surface (see our post "Sprained Ankle: What to Do First and When to See a Physio")
  • Wrist and forearm injuries from landing on an outstretched hand
  • Knee, hip and back strains from twisting or landing heavily
  • Shoulder injuries from landing on the arm or reaching to save yourself
  • Bruising and muscle soreness that can last for days

    • Older adults are more likely to be hurt in a fall, and may lose confidence afterwards. That fear of falling again can reduce activity, which can then lead to weaker muscles and worse balance. An older adult who has had a fall may need to be checked even if there is no obvious injury, especially if they have new difficulty walking or standing.



    The First Few Days


    If the injury appears minor and you can move safely:


  • Protect the area. Rest it for a short time and avoid anything that increases the pain.
  • Keep moving gently. Gentle movement, as comfort allows, can help. Do not force movement or put weight on an injured limb if you suspect a fracture or cannot bear weight.
  • Use a cold pack. A cold pack, or frozen vegetables wrapped in a cloth, for up to 20 minutes every 2 to 3 hours in the first couple of days can help with pain and swelling. Never put ice directly on the skin.
  • Support and elevate a swollen limb when sitting.
  • Watch for changes. Swelling, bruising and pain should slowly ease. If they are getting worse after two to three days, get the injury checked.

    • Do not ignore pain that does not settle, a joint that feels unstable or gives way, or pain that wakes you at night.



    How Physiotherapy Can Help


    A physiotherapist can assess the injury, check how the joint and muscles are working, and explain what is likely to help. Depending on your needs, a plan may include:


  • Guidance on how much to rest and how quickly to return to activity
  • Gentle mobility and strengthening exercises
  • Balance and walking practice, so you feel steady again
  • Hands-on treatment where it is suitable for you
  • Advice on getting back to work, sport or daily tasks

    • Your physiotherapist can also assess balance, leg strength and walking confidence, helping to identify areas to work on to reduce the risk of future falls.


    Recovery depends on the injury and on the person, so your physiotherapist will agree a plan with you. If further medical assessment or imaging is needed, we will advise you on the appropriate next steps and referral options.



    Reducing Your Risk of a Fall This Winter


    Outdoors

  • Wear shoes or boots with good grip, and take shorter, slower steps on frosty or wet surfaces
  • Keep your hands free (out of pockets) so you can steady yourself
  • Use handrails, and plan routes with well-lit, gritted paths
  • Take extra care in the dark evenings and on wet leaves

    • At home

  • Keep floors, stairs and entrances clear and dry, with non-slip mats at doors
  • Use good lighting, including night lights on the way to the bathroom
  • Clear fallen leaves from paths, and use suitable grit on paths and steps when it is icy

    • Strength and balance

  • Regular strength and balance exercise lowers the risk of falling. See our post "Can Physiotherapy Help Prevent Falls in Older Adults?" for more.


    • Home Visits for Older Adults


    If getting to a clinic is difficult after a fall, or you are worried about falling again, we offer home visit physiotherapy in North County Dublin, Dublin 9, Dublin 15 and Dublin 11, including to nursing homes. Please give at least 48 hours' notice where possible. We assess how you move at home, and agree an exercise and safety plan with you and, if you wish, your family or carers. Call or message us, and we will give you a clear quote before the first visit.



    Frequently Asked Questions


    Should I rest completely after a fall?

    For a short time only. Gentle movement, as comfort allows, usually helps recovery. If you cannot put weight on a limb or the pain is severe, get urgent medical help.


    Do I need a GP referral to see a physiotherapist?

    No. You can book directly with us, online or by phone.


    How long does recovery take?

    It varies with the injury and the individual. A mild sprain may improve over a few weeks, while more serious injuries take longer. Your physiotherapist can give you a clearer idea after an assessment.


    Can you visit me at home?

    Yes, in the areas listed above, by arrangement. Home visits are quoted before the first visit.



    Book Your Appointment


    You do not need a GP referral. Evening appointments (until 9:00 PM on weekdays) and Saturday appointments (9:00 AM to 5:00 PM) are available at our clinics in Swords (Applewood Close) and Santry (Dublin 9). Book online using the button below, or call us.


    📞 +353 83 098 5073

    ☎️ +353 1 513 0603

    📧 contact@365physiotherapy.ie


    Learn more about our Home Visit Physiotherapy service.

    Ready to Book Your Appointment?

    Senior physiotherapists in Santry and Swords. Evening and weekend appointments. No GP referral needed.

    Book OnlineMobile: +353 83 098 5073Landline: +353 1 513 0603

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