Winter Preparedness

Winter is coming and with that comes several safety concerns. Preventing injuries that come along with the snow and ice are critical towards preventing back injuries as well as other ailments. If your injury has resulted in the need for help, reach out to Suffolk County Chiropractic for the best Suffolk County back pain treatment.

Here are some important things to remember as we head into the winter months:

Wear Proper Footwear

The shoes that you put on your feet during the winter could save your life! Although it is never a guarantee, reducing your exposure to slipping and falling during winter months is always a plus. Our team at our Suffolk County Chiropractic wants to inform you to:

• Wear a shoe with a thick outside sole. If your shoes sole’s properties and walking surface have a high enough coefficient of friction, good traction will be achieved between the two and this can prevent you from slipping and falling.
• Proper winter footwear should provide traction against the snowy and slippery surfaces.
• The footwear should also keep your feet warm, insulated, and be water-resistant. Wearing proper protection can also help ward off against poor blood circulation caused by the cold.
• Keeping your feet dry is just as important as wearing warm shoes. Wearing moisture-resistant socks will also offer protection for your feet.

Proper Shoveling Techniques

By using proper shoveling techniques, you may prevent yourself from having a lower-back injury. These techniques include:

• Bend at the hips, not the low back, and push the chest out, pointing forward. Then, bend your knees and lift with your leg muscles, keeping your back straight.
• Avoid twisting the back to move the snow. Pivot your whole body in the direction you are moving the snow to.
• When gripping the shovel, keep your hands roughly 12 inches apart to provide more stability to your body and lower back.
• Keep your loads light; do not lift snow that is too heavy for you.
• Use a snowblower if possible.

Watch Out For Ice

Falling on ice can lead to severe pain and even a broken bone. In the case that this does happen, our chiropractic office in Suffolk County may be of help. Here are some tips to avoid slipping on ice this winter:

• Walk slowly! Be cautious of where you are stepping and walk with short steps
• Shift your weight to the insides of your feet while walking, sort of like a penguin
• Avoid walking on highly compacted snow
• Stay focused
• Shovel or snow blow your walkway
• Put on ice melt after shoveling

If you’re looking for quality Suffolk County back pain treatment on Long Island, contact us today!