Brrrr!! Tips to Stay Safe in This Cold Weather

It's pretty frigid out there. My thermometer currently says 9 degrees! Here are some tips on how to stay safe on those slick sidewalks this winter.

1) Wear the right shoes. Select a shoe with tread, firm ankle support. If you have laces, lace them firmly, but not too tight to cut off circulation. Same goes for clothing, make sure your layers are loose fitting.

2) Never walk with your hands in your pockets. It's better to wear gloves so you can easily balance yourself if you suddenly lose traction. Walking in with your hands in your pockets makes you more apt to break a shoulder, arm, elbow, neck, if you fall.

3) Fall with grace. Try to fall as gracefully as possible once you feel yourself start to lose balance. Curl up and roll to help reduce jarring to the body.

4) If you have asthma, heart, or lung disease, remember to cover your mouth when the wind is blowing and the air is cold.

5) Work smart and take frequent breaks while shoveling snow or treating sidewalks. Take your time and lift small piles of snow rather than large piles to help minimize injury.

6) Make sure to wear a hat and keep your head covered. You can lose up to 50% of your body heat through your head.

7) To prevent falls, it's best to improve your balance before you need to. Practice regular exercises that will improve your balance. Please ask us for exercises appropriate for you.

If you do fall, or experience any pain this winter, be sure to give our office a call and schedule a chiropractic checkup.