Welcome to Health News, Notes and Quotes. We have selected the following categories and news items below because we believe they can help educate you about the importance of good health and the benefits of chiropractic.

Winter Spinal Safety

Winter sports are a favorite pastime of mountain goers and snow lovers everywhere. From snowboarding and skiing to hiking, these outdoor activities can put a great deal of strain on your spine.

Skiing and snowboarding are popular activities, particularly as people visit mountains this winter. If you have experienced lower back or hip problems in the past, the intensity of skiing or boarding you choose is important in order to avoid putting undue stress on the body. 

Hiking and running can exert five times a person’s body weight on the feet and ankles. This force travels up the legs, through the hips to the spine and head, potentially causing muscle, joint and back pain. You must take measures to protect yourself; otherwise, your joints, cartilage and other connective tissue can become damaged – leading to arthritis or worse. Be sure to wear properly fitting, well-cushioned running shoes, and avoid running on hard surfaces.

Winter is a great time to take advantage of nature’s beautiful sights, and hiking is a way to experience the great outdoors while giving your body a good workout. But walking for long periods of time on uneven terrain presents the opportunity for injury and fatigue. Wear comfortable shoes with proper traction and use a walking stick to take some of the pressure off your body.

Biking is another great form of exercise. It is easier on the knees than running and hiking; however, you can still injure your back if you’re not careful. Adjust the bike so that it fits your body, and periodically shift your neck to loosen your muscles.

Your chiropractor can identify and correct any weaknesses or imbalances and can provide you with exercises to help improve your athletic performance. Taking a few moments to evaluate how you are performing your activities this winter will go a long way in preventing injuries. Now get out there and have some fun!