Winter weather is responsible for a few injuries if you're not careful.

The calendar may have you thinking thoughts of Spring, but in Southern Ontario, Winter seems to be hanging on. There are steps you and your loved ones can take to prevent injuries while waiting for Spring to arrive. Winter weather is responsible for a few injuries if you’re not careful.

Common injuries are due to:

• Muscle strain from snow shoveling

• Falling/tripping on snow and ice-covered sidewalks

• Car accidents

• Mishaps during winter sports and activities

When you are shoveling snow, you need to great care. A lot of us are guilty of just wanting to get the snow moved quickly and don’t think about the risk of injury. Before you start shoveling, make sure you warm up your muscles like you would for a workout. If you don’t take the steps to prepare, you could end up with strained muscles and lower back injury. When you head outside, don’t forget to put on the proper footwear. Take the steps to avoid a fall or trip because of snow and ice. The most common injuries with a fall are bruises and muscle strain. Before venturing outside, take the time to put on the appropriate footwear. If you’re a senior or a person with a disability, have someone walk with you while walking. Keep your hands free for balancing so wear gloves for warmth instead of using your pockets. A tip that can be useful while walking in the winter weather, is to use a backpack instead of carrying a bag. A backpack will keep your arms free to even out your balance and distribute weight. If you happen to be involved in a car accident, and you sustain injuries like pulled muscles and strains, see your chiropractic specialist. If you have serious injuries, be sure to have them treated at the closest Emergency Department. When taking part in winter sports and activities be aware of your surroundings and where people are near you. You can prevent injury with the use of helmets and of course, wearing the proper footwear.

If you have suffered injuries such as strain to your back, neck, and muscles in general, you can be treated by the team at West Niagara Chiropractic and Wellness Centre. Always take the steps to avoid aches and pains. Keep the following at the top of mind to stay safe:

• Wear footwear made for snow and ice

• Don’t take long strides, use smaller steps and take your time

• Carry your charged cell phone

• Put salt or sand on your driveway and sidewalk (kitty litter also does the trick)

Sometimes accidents happen, so don’t stress! Chiropractic care is safe for managing what is bothering you. West Niagara Chiropractic and Wellness Centre will help relieve your pain and recommend a course of action that may include several types of therapies that could include Active Release Technique, Lumbar Disc Distraction, Therapeutic Laser Treatment and so much more. West Niagara Chiropractic and Wellness Centre has specialists on their team well-versed in each discipline. For all your chiropractic needs, reach out to West Niagara Chiropractic and Wellness Centre.

West Niagara Chiropractic and Wellness Centre

(905) 945-3730