Winters mean sitting by a fire, sipping hot chocolate and enjoying with family in the holidays. However, some common winter activities carry a high risk of injury.

Here are some effective ways to reduce the risk of injury without compromising on the fun.

Winter Sports

Skiing, ice skating and snowboarding are great fun and provide excellent exercise but they can also take a toll on your body, especially if you only engage in them occasionally.

Falls and collisions may result in broken bones, dislocations, and cuts. In addition, even minor falls and injuries may result in back and neck pain, sprains, strains, spinal misalignments, and muscle spasms.

To avoid these injuries, your chiropractor recommends adequate warm up with squats, lunges, and jumping jacks before you begin, to improve flexibility. You may also begin with easier activities, such as snow tubing, sledding, and cross-country skiing.

Shoveling

Snow looks light, but can be incredibly heavy. If your body isn’t accustomed to lifting heavy weights, you are likely to experience muscle or joint pain. Twisting while shoveling can strain the muscles and joints, causing lower back pain.

To avoid these injuries, use a shovel with a longer shaft. It helps you keep your back straight. Avoid twisting your body by stepping in the direction you're throwing snow. If you experience chest pain or shortness of breath, call 911 without delay.

Decorating

Decorating is an exciting part of the holiday activities. Unfortunately, they won't be quite as enjoyable if you unfortunately fall off a ladder.

To avoid holiday decorating injuries, be careful while standing on ladders to put up lights or decorations. Ask someone to hold the ladder, and don't reach too far on the ladder.

Walking

Even walking can prove risky during the winter. Ice and puddles from melting snow make you vulnerable to slips and falls.

To avoid these injuries, wear boots with non-slip soles. Add cleats to your boots if you go hiking. Use salt or ice melt to reduce ice on stairs, driveways, and sidewalks. Plan your runs for the middle of the day, when temperatures are higher, or run on a treadmill.

Spending Time with Family

Even playing board games or building puzzles on cold winter evenings may also lead to aches and pains if you remain in one position for too long. It may lead to muscle fatigue and strain your spine and ligaments.

To avoid these injuries, take frequent breaks and maintain proper posture. When you sit, use a chair that supports your back and use a footrest, if your feet don't touch the ground.

To consult the best chiropractor in Colorado Springs at Colorado Accident and Injury, call 719-917-1000 Today.Colorado Accident and Injury specialists provide a tailored, comprehensive care plan so that you can focus on improving your health.