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Winter sports like skiing, snowboarding, and ice skating may be thrilling, but they’re also notorious for causing injuries. Although accidents on the slopes or ice aren’t always avoidable, you can take many steps to minimize your risk for wintertime sports injuries. Here are some practical tips for staying safe while practicing your favorite outdoor activities this season. 

5 Strategies for Winter Sports Injury Prevention

1. Warm Up Thoroughly 

When muscles are cold because of low temperatures, warm-ups are essential. Warming up, which gradually raises the heart rate and increases blood flow to the muscles, helps prepare your body for work and prevents injury. Try dynamic stretches, such as toe touches and leg swings. 

2. Wear Protective Gear

Collisions and falls on ice or snow may happen unexpectedly. Therefore, keep vulnerable body parts protected. Wear a helmet when you hit the slopes or skating rink, and invest in some additional padding for your arms and legs. 

3. Learn How to Fall

Whether you’re on skis, skates, or a snowboard, you should learn how to fall when you lose your balance. You may have time to brace yourself in a way that minimizes impact and injury. Whenever possible, try to fall to the side and keep your head protected. Fall without jutting out your arm to avoid sprains and fractures. 

4. Keep an Eye on Your Surroundings

sportsi njuryAs you’re learning a new sport or trying to master a trick, look up regularly, and stay aware of your surroundings. From people to trees, you may encounter plenty of obstacles that could cause injury upon collision. 

5. Don’t Push Your Limits 

As you gain confidence, you may want to try out new moves. Whether you’re thinking about trying a jump or twist on the ice or an advanced trail on the slopes, move slowly. Master the foundations before you move on to bigger challenges.

 

Even with proper sports injury prevention tactics, the possibility of developing sprains, strains, and pulled muscles during winter activities is ever-present. Should you get hurt this winter, allow Midwest Spine Center to help you make a swift and thorough recovery. Their Fort Dodge, IA, team helps patients get back in the game with adjustments, cold laser therapy, therapeutic exercise, and other chiropractic treatments. Explore their services online, or call (515) 576-1176 to schedule an appointment.

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