As winter blankets Airdrie, Alberta, with its chilly embrace, many of us find ourselves battling not just the cold but also the aches and pains that often accompany this frosty season. In this blog post, we’ll delve into how Athletic Therapy can be a game-changer in managing and preventing winter-related pain, especially when tackling activities like shoveling snow. We’ll also provide research-based tips to keep you safe and pain-free.
Understanding Winter Pains
The drop in temperature during Alberta’s winters can exacerbate chronic pain conditions. Although an increase in pain and symptoms with change in weather is common, it is not “normal”. Cold weather can increase muscle stiffness, joint pain, and overall discomfort. This is where Athletic Therapy comes in as a proactive approach to not only manage pain but also prevent it.
Athletic Therapy: Your Winter Companion
Athletic therapists specialize in treating a variety of conditions that can be aggravated during the winter. Their expertise in musculoskeletal injuries (bones, ligaments, muscles, tendons and nerves) makes them particularly effective in addressing winter-related strains and sprains.
Personalized Care Plans: Athletic therapists in Airdrie offer tailored programs to strengthen your body, improve flexibility, and enhance your overall resilience against winter pains.
Injury Prevention Education: Understanding how to move and exercise safely in the cold can significantly reduce the risk of winter-related injuries.
Pain Management Techniques: From manual therapy to therapeutic exercises, Athletic Therapists provide an array of pain management strategies that are effective and research-backed.
Research-Based Tips for Safe Snow Shoveling
Shoveling snow, a common winter chore in Airdrie, can lead to back strain, muscle soreness, and even more serious injuries if not done correctly.
Warm-Up: Engage in a 10-minute warm-up to prepare your muscles. Simple indoor exercises like stretching or spot jogging can be beneficial (NIOSH).
Ergonomic Shovels: Use a shovel with a curved handle to minimize bending, reducing the strain on your back (Occupational Medicine, Oxford Academic).
Proper Technique: Bend your knees and lift with your leg muscles, keeping your back straight. Avoid twisting movements, and instead, turn your whole body (American Journal of Emergency Medicine).
Pace Yourself: Take regular breaks and avoid overloading the shovel. It’s better to lift smaller amounts more frequently (The American Journal of Cardiology).
Stay Hydrated: Even in cold weather, staying hydrated is crucial. Dehydration can make muscles more susceptible to injury (American College of Sports Medicine).
Athletic Therapy is a powerful tool in your arsenal for staying pain-free during the Airdrie winter. It not only helps in managing existing pain but also plays a significant role in preventing potential injuries, especially during activities like snow shoveling. Remember, the key to a pain-free winter is a combination of proactive care, proper techniques, and the expert guidance of Athletic Therapists. Stay warm, stay safe, and enjoy the beauty of winter without the discomfort.
Don’t let winter pain hold you back!
Reach out to our Airdrie Chronic Pain Clinic and unlock a world of relief and comfort. Our skilled Athletic Therapists are eager to craft a personalized plan just for you. Say goodbye to aches and hello to joyful, pain-free winters. Book your consultation today and take the first step towards a happier, healthier you this winter season!
