The snowy conditions can be a lot of fun and a chance for some well deserved playing for some, but for others it can mean a time for pain and injury - here are a few things to think about:
Best Foot Forward
It is a good idea to have two pairs of shoes, one for walking in the snow, the other for either driving or walking around the office. Preferably have a waterproof shoe for outside, but one that gives you support, like a walking shoe, which has a grippy sole and can be laced supportively around your foot and ankle. Whilst wellingtons can be practical they often don’t give you enough support and can be difficult to get off. Avoid walking in leather soled shoes outside and if you are driving, change your shoes if possible so your feet do not slip on the pedals.
Top Gear
Clothing wise try and layer up…..trousers should be warm and allow you to move freely - avoid things in your pockets that may do you harm if you were to fall.
Jackets should ideally go to just below your waist to hips but make sure it doesn’t impede your walking; if you fall you will be thankful for the extra padding.
In addition to keeping you warm hats and gloves can also act a padding should you fall. A hat can act a bit like a crash helmet and reduce the force of any knock to the head. Likewise when wearing gloves you are less likely to have your hands in your pockets which may save you if you were to slip.
Falling Gracefully
If you do fall, try and curl up and ‘roll’ with the fall and try to stay relaxed, this will minimise any likely jarring to your body. Whilst it may be an automatic reaction try to avoid putting your hands out to save you - this may cause wrist injuries.
Keep Your Wits
It goes without saying, try and avoid alcohol - not only will you be more prone to feeling the adverse effects of the cold (it causes Vasodilation which will make you lose body heat) but if you have alcohol in your system it may cause you to take risks in the snow and ice that you wouldn’t normally do and is of course likely to make you more unsteady on your feet. Keep topped up with warm drinks to keep your temperature up.
Plan, Plan, Plan
Plan what you need to do, especially if it involves travelling anywhere. Avoid walking too near the edge of the pavement near the road to avoid slipping into traffic. Be patient, don’t hurry and watch out for parts of the pavement that may have been in shadow or under trees, where there is more likely be black ice.
Travelling by Car
Getting the car off the drive can be a problem……. if possible, sort your garage and put the car away. If you do have to scrape the ice off your car, make sure that you have the correct implements and a can of de-icer. Stand on a stable surface and do not over stretch.
Make sure your car is regularly maintained to ensure you have good tread on your tyres – minimum tread depth is 3mm but the more the better.
Make sure your battery has been checked as a flat battery can not only cause you a great deal of inconvenience but can cause you to be stranded and exposed to the cold for a long period of time, not to mention the exertion of pushing your car. Before you turn your ignition key make sure your lights, heater and radio are turned off as this puts less strain on the battery - you can switch them on once you get going.
Finally, whether you are travelling a long distance or just around the corner, don’t forget to take a fully charged mobile phone with you, you never know when it will come in handy!
Safe Shovelling
Whilst very satisfying, clearing snow can be a very strenuous task. Make sure you bend your knees and keep your back straight, don’t twist too much as any “unaccustomed activity” may cause injury, if in doubt put some salt or grit down instead.
Remember if you do fall make sure you get checked over, especially if you hit your head.
You can also visit the BCA website for more advice and information on chiropractic.
Tags: BCA, chiropractic, ice, snow
