Your spine is, quite literally, the backbone of your body. It helps to keep your nervous system and immune system functioning properly; any small disruption can lead to discomfort, injury, or other issues. Back pain is unpleasant in itself, and it’s especially frustrating when you simply want to spend time with friends and family during the holidays.
If You’re Engaging in Cold Winter Sports, Do So Safely
It’s important to talk to your doctor and keep your spine in mind before you practice any winter sports. Sledding or ice skating might not seem risky, but if you have a condition that might be aggravated, these activities can become dangerous. Your chiropractor will be able to let you know if you have to worry about problems or not, so it’s good to speak with them beforehand to identify any precautions you should take.
Some spinal conditions can lead to situations when you have decreased sensation in your extremities. Decreased hand-eye coordination can be frustrating if you want to perform winter sports, and it can even make you more prone to injuries. That’s why it makes sense to avoid winter sports until you get the green light from the doctor.
Use the Right Protective Equipment
We encourage you to use the best protective equipment. You want clothes that will insulate your body and keep the you warm. In addition, any protective layers for your back and spine in particular will be much appreciated. Avoid shoes with a slick sole, as they can make you prone to falling and injuring your back.
Do Lots of Stretches
These are designed to help protect your back and promote flexibility. Before you engage in any activity or sport, it’s a great idea to stretch. Especially in the cold winter weather, you will need to “warm up” your muscles to decrease your risk of injury.
Get Adjusted Regularly
Your chiropractor will let you know how to take care of your spine and avoid any potential damage. He can give you a spinal care treatment as well, so that you and your spine will be as healthy as possible. Understanding the health of your spine, as well as any physical limitations you may have, will help you to accurately assess your ability to handle various activities. The more you focus on protecting your spine, the better you’ll feel in the end.
We encourage you to use these tips if you want to prevent any potential spinal damage. The last thing you want is to have any problems with your back, so using these spinal care tips will be helpful in taking care of your overall health. It might take a while to adapt them to your own requirements, but try to keep them in mind. They might save your life or at least prevent any major spinal injuries!
Schedule an appointment with us today! Here at Haddock Chiropractic, we believe that it’s essential to take care of your spine all year long.