The extreme weather conditions in Minnesota puts people at risks of developing injuries. Icy surfaces and snow are difficult to navigate for everyone from the typical athlete to the Average Joe. Some people become injured as a result of the extreme weather in Minnesota and end up having to seek chiropractic services as a result. Why are the chiropractors seeing more patients with the weather extremes in Minnesota?
Athletes and Winter Injuries
Some athletes take the running activities indoors for the winter months. Others continue their running activities outdoors on icy surfaces and find it difficult to navigate the snowy conditions. Cold weather causes the body to respond differently than it normally would during the summer months. Experts recommend that people run during sunny days during winter months. Keeping the body as warm as possible is the single most important factor in protecting the body from becoming injured. Some runners buy special gear that keeps the body well insulated. During the coldest months, layered clothing and high performance athletic clothing will improve circulation.
Weather Sports
Fans of outdoor sports like skiing, snowboarding and sledding also put people at risk for back & neck injury. Accidents are one of the leading reasons why people who participate in these sports visit their local chiropractor. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission follows the number of winter accidents attributed to recreational exports. In 2007, there were over 131,000 injuries related to skiing. In that same year, an estimated 106,900 sledding accidents occurred, a favorite pass time of children. Exercising the necessary precautions while enjoying these recreational sports will keep the person safe during harsh winter months.
Slip and Fall Accidents
Slip and fall accidents can land the average person in a doctor’s office. The extreme weather conditions increase risks of fracture. A person can slip on ice and fracture a hip or wrist. The proper footwear can lower risks of a person becoming injured while walking or running on slippery surfaces. The proper traction provides maximum slip resistance. Some manufacturers make waterproof shoes. Wearing the right shoes that provide the best support and traction can reduce risks of slip and fall accidents.
Shoveling Injuries
Shoveling is a labor-intensive process. A person who has devoted hours to removing snow that has accumulated on their driveway puts people at risk of back injuries. Many people end up in the chiropractor’s office as a result of these injuries. The weight of the snow causes stress to the back. Lifting and twisting strains the lower back. Minimizing these risks of back injuries is done through taking frequent breaks. Keeping the hips in a wider stance and squatting while lifting the snow protects the back from injuries. Wearing a back brace adds another level of protection. Most back injuries are preventable.
Athletes, sports enthusiasts, slip and fall accidents and shoveling activities all lead to these injuries. The person who takes extra precautions can prevent most of these injuries. It is important for a person to receive chiropractic treatment when one begins to notice back pain. The person may cause the condition to worsen if he or she does not seek treatment immediately.
If you have any questions about back and neck pain relief or prevention, contact your local Premier Health Chiropractors‘ clinic for answers.