Keep an Eye Out for Ice

Snow days are beautiful. Especially when watching from the comfort of home, hands wrapped around a steaming mug, feet firmly stuffed into fuzzy slippers. But we can’t always while away the winter; heading out into the cold is often necessary.

If it’s time to face the chill, be on the lookout for icy conditions. They can make even the short walk to your car treacherous. Do your best to prevent falling but if you stumble, consider a trip to Family and Sports Chiropractic Clinic in Vancouver.

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) warn that “walking on ice is extremely dangerous. Many cold-weather injuries result from falls on ice-covered sidewalks, steps, driveways, and porches. Keep your steps and walkways as free of ice as possible by using rock salt or another chemical de-icing compound. Sand may also be used on walkways to reduce the risk of slipping.”

Beware of falling on Ice this winterFall injuries are especially problematic as we age. The CDC also reports that “Each year, millions of older people—those 65 and older—fall…Falling once doubles your chances of falling again.” As our population ages, this statistic grows. Research shows that in 2014 there were 46 million older adults. Of these, 29 million suffered a fall with 7 million resulting injuries. They project that by 2030, there will be 74 million older adults, 49 million falls, and 12 million related injuries.

If you or a loved one fall prey to winter’s slippery weather, make an appointment with Dr. Chani Henderson. Dr. Henderson specializes in treatment of auto and sports accidents, as well as general and pregnancy chiropractic care. Herself a huge fan of the outdoors, she knows that enjoying the Pacific Northwest sometimes comes with bumps and bruises.

Ice-related falls can result in back injuries, muscle and ligament strain, scrapes, and broken bones. If you’ve ruled out broken bones and bandaged up small cuts but are still distractingly sore, call Dr. Henderson for follow-up.

New patients can download an offer for a free no cost, no obligation question and answer session to determine the best way to proceed. If chiropractic methods fit your individual issue, X-rays may be taken. Your initial consultation also typically includes basic range of motion, orthopedic, and neurological testing.

Visit your Chiropractor if you've fallen on the ice Then, according to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NIH), treatment varies. “During follow-up visits, practitioners may perform one or more of the many different types of adjustments and other manual therapies used in chiropractic care. Given mainly to the spine, a chiropractic adjustment involves using the hands or a device to apply a controlled, rapid force to a joint. The goal is to increase the range and quality of motion in the area being treated and to aid in restoring health. Joint mobilization is another type of manual therapy that may be used.”

The NIH acknowledges that “Although practitioners may use a variety of treatment approaches, they primarily perform adjustments (manipulations) to the spine or other parts of the body with the goal of correcting alignment problems, alleviating pain, improving function, and supporting the body’s natural ability to heal itself.”

For seniors, chiropractic care may even prevent future slips and falls. Caregiver information portals explain that “With 33% of seniors falling every year, finding a plausible solution to this problem is a priority. Chiropractic care is helpful in this area as it helps to minimize subluxations in the spine and helps patients learn to stretch and exercise to improve their balance and strength throughout their senior years.”

They also acknowledge that chiropractors provide pain relief without the use of medication as well as an increased range of motion and quality of life. By getting to the root of an issue, instead of just treating pain, chiropractors get you back on your feet again.

When winter hits, a few simple steps make for more stable steps. Dr. Henderson recommends wearing flat, reliable shoes with adequate traction. Take smaller strides and watch for slippery areas on paths, walkways, and untreated sidewalks. Also look out for the slick texture of wet moss that builds up in Washington damp.

contact your chiropractor for help if you've fallen on ice this winterShe also suggests wearing gloves. By keeping your hands warm and out of coat or sweater pockets, you can balance or brace yourself as needed. If you do fall, try to protect your head and fall on your side if possible. Let groceries, car keys, or cumbersome bags fall…you’re more important.

Follow Family and Sports Chiropractic Clinic on Facebook or call 360-254-0400 with questions. Book an appointment over the phone or at the office.