THE NOT-SO-GOOD GOODIES OF DECEMBER

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It’s December! A month of festive cheer, indulgent meals, and new resolutions we probably won’t keep. For most people, it’s all about unwinding and celebrating. But for those in the health sector—especially those who can’t take a holiday because they’re busy saving lives—it’s a slightly less magical time. Are you ready for the chaos that comes with the season?

December Joys and Risks

While the rest of us are dreaming of jollof rice and fireworks, there’s a darker side to December. With everyone zipping around to visit family, stock up groceries, or attend one too many end-of-year parties, the roads become chaos incarnate. And let’s not forget the extra cooking adventures that sometimes turn into kitchen calamities.


Unfortunately, this is also a month when health professionals brace themselves for an increase in accident-related injuries. Why? Because too many people are in a hurry, and physics doesn’t take holidays.


Safe Handling: More Than Just Common Sense

Now, here’s a fact that might shock us: the way we move someone after a road accident can make the difference between life, disability, or worse. Yes, we all want to help, but in our panic to “do something,” we sometimes do the wrong thing.


For example, imagine dragging someone out of a car without stabilizing their neck. This might turn a survivable accident into a permanent spinal injury—or even cost them their life.


This is where physiotherapists come in. Unlike doctors, who focus on immediate survival, physiotherapists are all about helping people move again—because, after all, movement is life. And trust us, if you mess up someone’s neck, there’s a good chance they might not walk—or breathe—normally again.

Practical Tips for Safe Transportation

Relax, no one’s asking you to become a trauma expert overnight. But here are some simple steps you can take to help accident victims safely:

  • Stabilize the Neck

If a cervical (neck) collar is available, use it. If not, ensure the neck is kept straight and supported during the transfer.

  • Call for Help

Always involve professionals (like FRSC in Nigeria) who are trained in accident response. And preferably, let them handle the application of the cervical collar. 

  • Avoid Quick Movements

Don’t rush to pull someone out of a car unless there’s an immediate danger (like fire). Take a moment to assess the situation.

  • Support the Body

Keep the spine straight while moving the individual to prevent further injury.

Wrapping It Up

This isn’t meant to scare you, but to equip you to help others safely. And while we are on the topic of neck safety, let’s talk about your neck. Yes, you, the one who has been hunched over your screen for the past five minutes. Straighten that neck, will you? Don’t worry—we won't give up on you.

Better? Good.

Now that you’re sitting tall and proud, stay tuned for next week’s post, where we will uncover more festive season mishaps and how to avoid them. After all, December should be about joy, not hospital visits.


For more tips or questions, email us at thephysiodiary@gmail.com. Let’s make this a safe and happy holiday season!


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