Preventing Cold-Related Injuries During The Winter

By Dr. John A. Papa, DC, FCCPOR(C)

Physical activity during the winter season can place unique demands on the body that can predispose you to injuries such as:

❄ Soft tissue injuries - including sprains, strains and contusions. Cold weather decreases the elasticity of soft tissues making them more prone to injury during activity.  Ligaments and muscles in the back, upper and lower extremities are commonly injured.  Falls in slippery conditions can also contribute to injury.

🥶 Exposure injuries - include frostbite and hypothermia and occur when individuals do not wear attire that is appropriate for the weather conditions and physical activity performed.

❄ Blisters - can form due to the friction of wet gloves and/or wet socks with poorly fitting footwear.

🌞 Sun-related injuries - can also occur in the winter months and cause sunburn and snow blindness.

❄ Technical injuries - can happen when physical activities are performed with:  inadequate technique/training; unsuitable equipment; and/or poor preparation/planning.

Below are some of the strategies that can be used to prevent cold-related injuries:

✅ WARM UP and prepare your body for physical activity by stimulating the joints and muscles, and increasing blood circulation.  Also consider exercise training to help prepare you for winter activity.

✅ DRESS FOR THE ELEMENTS - by wearing insulated lightweight clothing with multiple layers.  This will allow you to add or subtract layers as needed.  Attire that is waterproof can help keep you dry and reduce the risk of heat loss.  Insulated gloves, footwear, and headgear can also help keep you warm.  Shoes and boots with solid treads and soles can help minimize the risk of awkward twisting, slips and falls.. 🥾

😎 PROTECT YOURSELF FROM THE SUN - by applying sunscreen regularly.  Your eyes should also be protected with UV blocking sunglasses.

✅ GET PROFESSIONAL TRAINING - while learning the skills of a particular activity such as skiing or snowboarding to help minimize the chance of injury. 🏂

✅ USE THE RIGHT EQUIPMENT & FIT - have sporting equipment properly fitted for your body type, and wear a helmet during activities. Use an ergonomic snow shovel for safe shoveling techniques. ⛸

✅ PREPARTION & PLANNING - be aware of changes in weather forecasts that can influence safety.  Coarse sand or ice salt can help give your walkways and driveways more traction.  Adequate nutrition and hydration before, during, and after activity can optimize energy levels and improve overall physical functioning.  This will help reduce fatigue and chance of injury. 💦

Recognizing some of the common injuries that occur during the winter months and knowing which precautions to take can ensure that you enjoy physical activities safely in cold weather. 👍  

For additional information on health and wellness, visit www.nhwc.ca.

#winter #injuries #physicalactivity #sprains #strains #contusions #blisters #sun #warmup #exercise #training #equipment #preparation #coldweather

How To Prepare And Condition Your Body For Skiing This Winter

❄ Winter can be a splendid and enjoyable time of year, especially if you love winter sports like skiing.  ⛷ But did you know that skiing can pose some risks to your muscles and joints if you are not adequately prepared⁉

Commonly, muscles that work to internally rotate the hips are activated and engaged during skiing – key for maintaining balance and coordination. 🏂 A great way to condition the body and build muscle memory for skiing is to practice your technique with the use of balance boards, in-line skates, or sports that require quick movements and changes of direction. 🛹

Another important aspect to skiing is the need for endurance and stamina. Interval training is a great tool to build endurance, where you maximize your input for short bouts of time. ⏱ The gains made through interval training can translate into meaningful improvements to your overall endurance; however, as with all activities, progression is key! 👍

Maintaining good muscle and joint range of motion is important, and building mobility is key to preventing injuries. Our Chiropractors can help you improve your joint and muscle function, as well as provide some guidance on how to best increase your mobility safely based on your individual goals and needs. The earlier you start, the better prepared you will be. ✅

#wintersports #skiing #winter #chiropractor #chiropracticcare #training #rehab #muscleandjoint #intervaltraining #exercise #wecanhelp #newpatientswelcome #wilmot #newhamburg #baden #wellesley #tavistock #waterlooregion

Tips To Avoid Back Pain When Shovelling Snow

Apart from dressing properly for the weather and making sure you have a sturdy, lightweight shovel, there are a few practices you can follow to help make snow-shovelling safer.

 

·        Stand with stability: Stand with your feet at hip-width apart to maintain your balance. It’s also best to wear boots that are non-slip when you shovel. This will help protect you from sliding when shovelling.

 

·        Keep the weight close to your body: Hold the shovel close to your body to guard against straining or pulling a muscle. When the snow is deep, try to shovel smaller amounts (3–5 centimetres/1–2 inches) of snow at a time.

 

·        Grip strategically: Space your hands apart on the handle to increase your leverage when lifting the snow.

 

·        Lift with your legs: Bend from your knees, not your back, when lifting. Not only does it protect your back, but you can strengthen your legs as well!

 

·        Engage your core: Tighten your stomach muscles when lifting snow. This helps to protect your back as you lift.

 

·        Don’t twist: Avoid twisting your body when you lift. Move your feet instead to turn your body.

 

·        Don’t fling the snow: Make sure to walk to place the snow on the side of the path rather than throwing it. Turn your feet in the direction you’re dumping the snow—this better positions you to maintain good form. Your whole body will thank you.

 

Snow shovelling can be a very strenuous activity, and even more so without the correct, protective form. Ask one of our Chiropractor more tips on improving your strength and stability.

 

With the proper preparation, tools, and technique you can make shovelling safer for you, and your walkways safer for your family, friends, and neighbours.

 

Happy shovelling!

 

9 Tips To Stay Active During The Winter Months

When it gets cold outside, we tend to spend more time indoors doing sedentary activities and it can be difficult to stay active. It’s helpful to plan ahead and set some time aside in your schedule a few days a week to make sure you’re getting the activity you need.

To have health benefits from exercise, adults need a total of 2.5 hours of activity spread across the week, in bouts of ten minutes or more. These activities need to be moderate-to-vigorous intensity aerobic activities. Moderate-intensity physical activities include brisk walking or bike riding. Generally, you know your activity is moderate-intensity if you sweat a little and breathe harder than when you’re moving about day-to-day. Vigorous-intensity activities include jogging or cross-country skiing, and you’re likely to find yourself sweating and feeling out of breath.

Here are a few tips to help keep you motivated to stay active during the winter months: 

• Plan activities ahead. When activities are in your calendar, you’re less likely to forget them. Preparedness also helps set good habits.
• Find a fun local activity, like snow shoeing, skiing, skating, or cross-country skiing.
• Dress in layers. Insulate your body. When you can keep your body warm, it’s easier to continue being active outside.
• Use your daylight hours. It’s easier to stay outside while it’s still light out. It’s easy to miss out on activities when you start them too late in the day.
• Find indoor activities at your local community centre. This could be aerobics classes, badminton, basketball, or yoga classes.
• Climb stairs. Deliberately add more steps to your day. Consider going up and down a flight in your home, the mall, or an office building more than once over the course of your regular daily activities. As little as five minutes can make a huge difference for your health.
• Visit a library to find more motivation. There are plenty of free exercise DVDs you can borrow, including dance, step, aerobics, or Pilates. You can use the return date as a deadline to pick up another one!
• Sign up for a fun run. You can often find non-competitive “fun runs” in your community that are usually between 5 and 10 kilometers. You can invite friends and family to join in!
• Find an activity buddy. Find someone willing to commit to being active as often as you are, and set a plan. That could be planning to meet for morning walks or afternoon workouts. Having a friend keeps you accountable.

For help on setting activity goals based on your specific musculoskeletal needs, you can always ask our Chiropractors about what activities are right for you.

Whatever your activity level is, remember to stay hydrated. It is easy to forget to drink water when it’s cold out, but your body needs just as much hydration in a snowstorm as it does in a heatwave.

Most importantly, stay motivated. Revisit your goals (or look for tips to set new ones) to make sure you’re still on track. Plan ahead and make sure you can envision your goal as you look ahead towards the finish line.

Here’s to staying active in the new year!

What To Look For In A Winter Boot And How Your Chiropractor Can Help

Here are some tips on choosing a winter boot that won’t just provide protection from the elements—it will protect your joint health too.

❓ WHY DOES CHOOSING THE RIGHT BOOT MATTER? 🥾

Foot pain doesn’t just start and end in the foot—it can be the source of much bigger pains in your body.

🦶 Foot pain is often the culprit for things like hip or lower back pain, which is why it’s so important to be assessed by a chiropractor to ensure you’re treating the correct pain source.

Choosing the correct shoe is the first step in ensuring you are looking after your overall joint health. 😀

❓ WHAT SHOULD YOU BE LOOKING FOR?

1. Comfort

✔ First and foremost, you need to find a winter boot that is comfortable.

✔ You should be able to walk in the boot for long periods of time and not feel any points of rubbing or tightness.

2. Wide spacing

✔ Look for a boot that’s a bit wider than your typical shoe.

✔ Because of the cold, you’re likely going to be wearing thicker socks, so you need extra room for your foot to move around. 🧦

✔ Having a shoe that’s too tight is going to create stiffness in your foot and can lead to various conditions like bunions, plantar fasciitis and hip and back pain.

3. Cushioning

✔ Pay attention to how your foot feels in the shoe when you walk.

✔ Your foot should feel supported and cushioned. 👀

✔ Be sure to flip the boot over and check the tread—does it physically raise off the sole or is it flush?

✔ Raised tread is going to give you more grip and stability in the winter, minimizing the risk of slips or falls. 🤕

❓ HOW CAN A CHIROPRACTOR HELP?

Chiropractors are specially trained in diagnosing and treating musculoskeletal-related conditions, which includes your feet. 👨‍⚕️

If you’re experiencing pain when you walk, a chiropractor can assess the pain and recommend a treatment plan. 🚶‍♀️

❄ We hope that these tips help you to choose winter boots that will keep you comfortable and safe all winter long! ❄

#winter #walking #ice #snow #winterboots #footwear #jointhealth #footpain #newhamburgchiropractic #newhamburgmassage #newhamburgphysiotherapy #newhamburgorthotics #newhamburgwellness #chiropractic #massage #physiotherapy #customorthotics #rehabilitativeexercise #wecanhelp #recordreaderaward2020 #newpatientswelcome #newhamburg #wilmot

Shovel Light

Snow piling up? We have some chiropractor-approved tips to help you shovel the right way this winter.

Warm Up

Before tackling any strenuous activity, a quick 10-minute warm up such as a walk around the block will kickstart your muscles for the activity ahead and help prevent injury.

1. Don’t Let Snow Pile Up ❄

If the weather report calls for several days of snow, frequent shovelling will allow you to move smaller amounts of snow after each snowfall.

2. Pick the Right Shovel ⛄

Use a lightweight push shovel. If you’re using a metal shovel, spray it with Teflon, so snow won’t stick to it.

3. Push, Don’t Throw 🌨

Push the snow to the side rather than throwing it. This way, you avoid lifting heavy shovelfuls of snow, and abrupt twists or turns that may result in injury.

4. Bend Your Knees ☑

If you need to lift shovelfuls of snow, bend your knees, and use your leg and arm muscles to do the work, while keeping your back straight.

5. Take a Break ⌚

If you feel tired or short of breath, stop and take a break. Shake out your arms and legs to recharge.

Keep Comfort in Mind 🧥

Layer your clothing so you can adapt to changing temperatures. If you become too warm while outdoors, simply remove a layer or two to maximize comfort.

Stay Hydrated 💧

Even though it’s cold outside, your body still needs plenty of fluids. Be sure to drink lots of water or fruit juice before, during and after shovelling. Remember – if you feel thirsty, you are already dehydrated.

Take it Slow 🐢

Rest when you feel tired or short of breath. Stop shovelling if you experience sudden or prolonged joint or muscle pain.

Cool Down 🚶‍♀️

After you’ve finished shovelling, cool down by taking a walk and stretching out tense muscles.

#winter #snow #shovelling #ice #backhealth #newhamburgchiropractic #newhamburgmassage #newhamburgphysiotherapy #newhamburgwellness #chiropractic #massage #physiotherapy #rehabilitativeexercise #wecanhelp #recordreaderaward2020 #newpatientswelcome #newhamburg #wilmot

7 Tips To Stay Active During The Winter Months

It can be difficult to stay active when it gets cold outside.

It’s helpful to plan ahead and set some time aside in your schedule a few days a week to make sure you’re getting the activity you need.

 

To have health benefits from exercise, adults need a total of 2.5 hours of activity spread across the week, in bouts of ten minutes or more.

 

These activities need to be moderate-to-vigorous intensity aerobic activities.

Here are a few tips to help keep you motivated to stay active during the winter months:

 

1. Plan activities ahead.

When activities are in your calendar, you’re less likely to forget them.

Preparedness also helps set good habits.

 

2. Find a fun local activity

Some examples are snow shoeing, skiing, skating, or cross-country skiing.

 

3. Dress in layers. 

Insulate your body. When you can keep your body warm, it’s easier to continue being active outside.

 

4. Use your daylight hours. 

It’s easier to stay outside while it’s still light out.

It’s easy to miss out on activities when you start them too late in the day.

 

5. Find virtual indoor activities in your local community.

This could be aerobics, dance or yoga classes.

 

6. Climb stairs. 

Deliberately add more steps to your day over the course of your regular daily activities.

As little as 5 minutes can make a huge difference for your health.

 

7. Find an activity buddy in your social circle. 

Find someone willing to commit to being active as often as you are, and set a plan.

Having a work out buddy keeps you accountable.

 

For help on setting activity goals based on your specific musculoskeletal needs, you can always ask your chiropractor about what activities are right for you.

 

Whatever your activity level is, remember to stay hydrated.

It is easy to forget to drink water when it’s cold out, but your body needs just as much hydration in a snowstorm as it does in a heatwave.

Most importantly, stay motivated. Revisit your goals (or look for tips to set new ones) to make sure you’re still on track. Plan ahead and make sure you can envision your goal as you look ahead towards the finish line.

 

Here’s to staying active in the new year!

 

#winter #stayingactive #exercise #newhamburgchiropractic #newhamburgmassage #newhamburgphysiotherapy #newhamburgorthotics #newhamburgwellness #chiropractic #massage #physiotherapy #rehabilitativeexercise #wecanhelp #recordreaderaward2020 #newpatientswelcome #newhamburg #wilmot

Protecting Your Back During The Winter Season

By Dr. John A. Papa, DC, FCCPOR(C)

The winter season is upon us and extra precaution must be taken as snow removal and icy walking surfaces can contribute to an increased risk of back injuries.  Included below are some useful tips that can be followed to help keep your back healthy and injury free this winter season.

1.   Warm up:  Prepare your body for physical activity by stimulating the joints and muscles, and increasing blood circulation.  Climbing stairs, marching on the spot, or going for a quick walk around the block can serve as excellent warm-up activities in five to ten minutes.  Follow this with some gentle stretches and exercises for the back.

2.    Push, don’t lift:  Push the snow to one side and avoid lifting.  If you must lift, keep the shovel close to your body and avoid twisting and turning by positioning yourself to lift and throw straight at the snow pile.  Be sure to lift slowly and smoothly and do not jerk with your lifts.

3.    Hinge the hips, bend the knees, keep the back straight and brace:  Use your hips, knees, legs and arm muscles to do the pushing and lifting while keeping your back straight.  Maintaining the natural and neutral curves of your back is important, as this is its strongest and most secure position.  Contracting and bracing your abdominal muscles during lifting improves spinal stability and decreases the chance of injury.

4.    Use the right shovel:  Use a lightweight, non-stick, push-style shovel.  Separate your hands as much as possible on the shovel handle for better leverage against the weight of the snow.

5.    Dress for the job:  Wear warm clothing to protect yourself against the elements.  Shoes and boots with solid treads and soles can help minimize the risk of awkward twisting, slips and falls.

6.    Don’t let the snow pile up:  Removing small amounts of snow on a frequent basis is less strenuous in the long run.

7.  Watch the ice:  Caution should be exercised around icy walkways and slippery surfaces.  Intermittent thaws and subsequent freezing can give way to ice build-up under foot increasing the risk of back twisting, slips and falls.  Coarse sand or ice salt can help give your walkways and driveways more traction.

8.    Take a break:  Know your physical limits.  If you feel tired or short of breath, stop and take a rest.  Make a habit to rest for a moment every 10 or 15 minutes during shoveling.  This is especially important if the snow is wet and heavy.  Stop shoveling immediately if you feel chest or back pain.

In the event that you suffer a back injury that does not subside, you should contact a licensed health professional who deals in the diagnosis and treatment of back pain.  For more information, visit www.nhwc.ca.

This article is a basic summary for educational purposes only.  It is not intended, and should not be considered, as a replacement for consultation, diagnosis or treatment by a duly licensed health practitioner.

Preventing Cold-Related Injuries During The Winter

By Dr. John A. Papa, DC, FCCPOR(C)

Physical activity during the winter season can place unique demands on the body that can predispose you to injury.  The good news is there are strategies that can be employed to help prevent cold-related injuries.

Below are some of the common injuries that can occur during the winter season:

·  Soft tissue injuries including sprains, strains, and contusions. Cold weather decreases the elasticity of soft tissues making them more prone to injury during activity.  Ligaments and muscles in the back, upper and lower extremities are commonly injured.  Falls in slippery conditions can also contribute to injury.

·  Exposure injuries include frostbite and hypothermia and occur when individuals do not wear attire that is appropriate for the weather conditions and physical activity performed.

·    Blisters can form due to the friction of wet gloves and/or wet socks with poorly fitting footwear.

·    Sun-related injuries can also occur in the winter months and cause sunburn and snow blindness.

·   Technical injuries can happen when physical activities are performed with:  inadequate technique/training; unsuitable equipment; and/or poor preparation/planning.

Below are some of the strategies that can be used to prevent cold-related injuries:

·   Warm up and prepare your body for physical activity by stimulating the joints and muscles, and increasing blood circulation.  Also consider exercise training to help prepare you for winter activity.

·     Dress for the elements by wearing insulated lightweight clothing with multiple layers.  This will allow you to add or subtract layers as needed.  Attire that is waterproof can help keep you dry and reduce the risk of heat loss.  Insulated gloves, footwear, and headgear can also help keep you warm.  Shoes and boots with solid treads and soles can help minimize the risk of awkward twisting, slips and falls.

·  Protect yourself from the sun by applying sunscreen regularly.  Your eyes should also be protected with UV blocking sunglasses.

·  Use safe snow shoveling techniques.  Get professional training and advice while learning the skills of a particular activity such as skiing or snowboarding to help minimize the chance of injury.

·    Equipment considerations may include using an ergonomic snow shovel, having sporting equipment properly fitted for your body type, or wearing a helmet during activities.

·     Preparation is critical.  For example, be aware of changes in weather forecasts that can influence safety.  Intermittent thaws and subsequent freezing can give way to ice build-up under foot increasing the risk of back twisting, slips and falls.  Coarse sand or ice salt can help give your walkways and driveways more traction.  Planning for physical activity is also important.  For instance, adequate nutrition and hydration before, during, and after activity can optimize energy levels and improve overall physical functioning.  This will help reduce fatigue and chance of injury.

Recognizing some of the common injuries that occur during the winter months and knowing which precautions to take can ensure that you enjoy physical activities safely in cold weather.  For additional information on health and wellness, visit www.nhwc.ca.

This article is a basic summary for educational purposes only.  It is not intended, and should not be considered, as a replacement for consultation, diagnosis or treatment by a duly licensed health practitioner.