Why Physiotherapists See More Injuries in Winter
You’d think that with the blankets of snow upon us during the winter, there would be less chance for injury. However, for physiotherapists, they’re busier than ever. Winter weather often means curling up by the fire with a hot beverage. While that’s certainly true during snowstorms, you have to leave sooner or later to go to work or get groceries. Even to play with your kids or grandkids in the snow. Once you set foot outside, a whole world of winter worries awaits.
– Slip and falls
Physiotherapists see many slip and fall injuries each winter. It’s not just the senior population either. Children and adults can hurt themselves when walking along. Ice is very sneaky and can have you on your back in seconds flat. Instead, walk like a penguin and shuffle your feet close to the ground. You’ll look silly, but it’s better than suffering an injury. Along with the shuffling, choose shoes with a good tread on them to help you maintain a good grip on the ground.
– Watch out on the roads
Wintery roads are another danger. While you can’t control the weather or avoid every icy patch, you can prevent problems by making sure your car is ready for these conditions. Your tire tread should be ready to grip ice and snow. You should also take your time when traveling. Make sure you keep enough space between you and the other cars out there. And in the event you lose control, make sure your headrest is up high enough to support you. Physiotherapists see a lot of whiplash injuries in the winter thanks to these unsavory driving conditions.
– Shovel the right way
Perhaps the real reason so many of us plan
tropical vacations in the winter is to escape the chore of shoveling the
driveway and front walk. Until you can hop on the next plane south though, keep
yourself free of injury so you can enjoy that vacation. A bigger shovel might
seem tempting to get rid of more snow more quickly, however, it might be too
big to manage. Choose a shovel of a smaller size to help protect your back and
remember to lift using your knees. Ideally, you should warm up inside the house
first like you would for any other exercise. This will make it less likely you’ll
hurt yourself and need a physiotherapist.
– Winter sports
Of course, if we have to deal with snowy winters, we should make the best of it. Winter sports are a great way to enjoy the outdoors and get some exercise too. Skiing and snowboarding are extremely popular, though you should be mindful of exercising to prime yourself for those adventures. Without training, you’re more likely to injure yourself.
And should you wind up with an injury from this winter or still have troubles from the fall season, contact us. We can send an expert physiotherapist to your door at your convenience to help you get back on your feet again!
