Stepovers are the worst possible mistake that anyone can make in their life. Why? Simply because they are so common and that we accept them as being normal. Most of us wouldn't even notice the damage that these little steps could be doing to our lives unless we are standing right next to a step over. They are little things, but the effect they have on us and our lives are more than just little things. Because these little things take away from the things that we truly want and need in our lives.
First of all, a stepover means that you have to put your feet down, you are either crossing yourself or your partner, or you are trying to steal someone else's space. This is not only unproductive and unattractive (most people don't like watching someone try to "steal" another person) but it is also a big problem for people of all ages. It's almost impossible for us to get over this "ido killer". The main thing that we can do is to never allow ourselves to be caught in this situation. The more often that this happens, the more difficult it will be for us to avoid the trap.
Another problem with stepping over is that our feet are most susceptible to being stepped on while we are trying to move. This can lead to sprained ankles and even torn tendons. Just imagine stepping up onto a hardwood floor that is still wet from the shower; it is not very healthy. So it's much better to stay home and keep our feet off the wet surfaces.
Moving onto the issue of safety, stepping over is a very bad way to prevent a fall. Because of gravity we are likely to roll instead of simply bounce when we land. If we happen to roll hard into a wall or a door it can cause serious injury. A simple stepover can be fatal.
Now that we know these reasons, lets look at how to avoid a stepover in the first place. There are a few different ways that this can occur. The main issue is to always see other people's step, especially when you are walking behind them. Make sure they don't have their steps facing in your direction.
When you come down the stairs, keep your body facing down the stairs. Your weight should be on your toes and your big toe should be hanging off of the stair. Toe jams can occur when you do this. So just don't do it.
Step on the balls of your feet. It doesn't matter if you slip, or if somebody else has tripped on your pair of shoes. As long as you stay on the balls of your feet, and you don't put too much weight on your big toe, you should be fine. When you put too much weight on your big toe, it makes it more likely to snap under the pressure.
One last way to avoid a stair lift mishap is to practice going up and down the stairs. Always try to keep your steps in the same direction. For example, if you have to go up to the second floor, always go up in the same direction as your staircase. Not only will it be easier for the person pushing you up the stairs, it will also reduce the chance of an accident happening.
Many times people who use stair lifts will fail to stop in time. So the best way to deal with this is to have both feet on the stair at all times. You will need to watch out for any jerky movements, such as wheels that start to turn suddenly, or a loose handrail.
Finally, don't step on board until you see that the stair rail is level. You don't want to put too much strain on the board. If the stairlift is moving strangely, step onto it and try to find out why it's not stopping. This is a very common reason why stair lifts break.
Hopefully these tips will help you avoid a stairlift mishap. Also remember to check the instructions that come with your stair lift to avoid potential safety problems. Don't use your stair lift if you're not confident in your ability to stop it!