Lately it's been a challenge to avoid slips and falls on the ice and the back pain that goes with them. Taking the dog on a walk, hopping out of the car, walking out on your deck and yikes, that slippery layer of snow leaves its mark! (espcially when it is too little to plow) What is the result? Months and months of back and neck pain.
Obviously the key is prevention, but if you aren’t quick enough to grab the shovel or salt and you weren't able to save yourself from falling, here are my tips. Immediately ice the painful region. As long as you aren’t seriously injured (by seriously, I mean broken bones) make sure you don’t spend the rest of the day curling into a ball on the couch or your office chair. That just makes it worse and you will stiffen up. Walking and stretching are just what the doctor ordered after a fall and it's of course the last thing anyone wants to do. That increased movement will keep you from stiffening up.
Sadly, most people don’t see me immediately after a fall for fear I can't work around their bruises. Coming into my chiropractic office earlier would certainly decrease the amount of pain and suffering if they did. If you’ve had a fall, please don’t wait to see if the pain goes away. Scar tissue forms after 14 days of mobility loss. I highly recommend tracking down your favorite chiropractor (hopefully me!) and getting in for some chiropractic adjustments to help your spine function better and heal.
One of my favorite fall prevention systems since I have gotten a little older and less limber myself are yaktrax. I strap them to the bottom of my boots when I take the dogs on a walk and so far have managed to stay upright on the icy days. I also have started doing little balancing exercises when I brush my teeth as it seems my balance is starting to go. Even after three days of practicing standing on one leg while I brush my teeth, it's easier.
Best of luck staying upright this ice season and if you do fall, see your friendly Plymouth chiropractor as soon as you can. Looking for a trusted chiropractor near me? Our expert Plymouth chiropractor provides personalized care to relieve pain and improve your wellness, right in the heart of Plymouth, MN.
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