Clear the Snow While Staying Clear of Injury During This Winter Storm

The National Weather Service has issued an advisory for what might be the biggest snowstorm this winter season.  On Tuesday, up to six inches of snow is expected to fall upon us.  

When snow, ice and frigid weather hit the Chicagoland area, watch out!  Winter recreational activities and chores can pose a problem for people whose bodies aren’t quite conditioned.  Winter sports such as skating, skiing and sledding can cause painful muscle spasms, strains, strains, joint problems or disc injuries to the neck and the lower back if not careful.  Shoveling snow the wrong way, climbing awkwardly over snow banks and slipping on sidewalks or driveways can all pose a potential problem.  Keep in mind that wearing the correct clothing during this winter season is also important.  Keeping warm can not only ward off joint pain, but keeping the muscles warm limits the exposure to potential strains in the muscles.  Muscles are like taffy.  They need to be warm to stretch and elongate.  If they are cold, they become brittle and tend to break and tear.  Warming up before a winter activity is crucial.  Keep up with the shoveling to reduce the weight you are pushing with the shovel.  When you get to the end of the driveway, simply push the snow straight ahead.  The worst thing you can do when shoveling is to bend and lift and twist and throw the snow into the bank.  That is how you rupture a disc.  If you are one who uses a snow blower, walk upright and let the machine do the work.  If you feel pain in your chest or experience shortness of breath…STOP and take the appropriate next steps!  If you experience a winter injury, please give us a call and let us nurture your ailments back to health and wellness at The Hart Wellness Center.  At THWC, we specialize in chiropractic care, acupuncture, rehabilitation, massage therapy and yoga.  Please visit www.hartwellnesscenter.com for more details!