After a snowstorm, doctors expect to see injuries from slips and falls.
But at Abington Memorial Hospital, they are also seeing two other types of injuries - several from sledding accidents, but even more from snow blowers.
12 people came in during just a 6-hour stretch.
"[The snow blower] got jammed up multiple times," one of the patients told Action News. He said he tried sticking his hand in to get out snow, but it caught the tips of it fingers.
Neither he nor any of the other patients wanted to be identified.
Dr. David Theodorson says last night's wet, heavy snow contributed to the rash of accidents, because it's harder for the machines to move, and they jam more often, tempting people to reach in.
"Some just needed to be cleaned up and stitched up, but some others will need extensive surgery, and grafts, and tissue and tendon repair," Dr. Theodorson said.
He reminds everyone: Don't rush or get distracted, and always keep your hands away from any moving parts.
Another not so serious problem reported today, are the many people suffering aches and pains after hours of heavy snow shoveling. The most common complaint is low back pain.
Cam McCormack, a physical therapist with Excel Physical Therapy, offers these tips for relief:For a mild ache, use heat to encourage mobility.
If it's more severe, try cold for the first 24 hours, then switch to heat.
Also keep moving.
And you can try the Prone Press-Up , a stretch posted by Excel on YouTube.
If you do not have any restrictions, you can take an over the counter pain reliever.
If you feel numbness or tingling in your legs or toes, you should call your doctor.
And although they saw a moderate amount activity today, doctors say they expect more tomorrow as more people are out and about. So just a reminder to be careful.
