Don’t let one safety measure of one accident slip by and spoil your winter fun this season. Snowfall and cooler temperatures make for a wonderful stock of winter activities. Ice-skating, skiing, snowboarding, sledding, snowball fights; all these activities are tons of fun, but can be extremely dangerous if not approached cautiously.
Southwest Spine and Pain Center wants all of our patients to have fun this winter season. With four locations across Utah, our medical staff is better able to provide winter safety tips to patients all over the state. These three winter sports deserve extra caution this winter season!
- Skiing/snowboarding- Use your head. Skiers and snowboarders should always wear a helmet when enjoying a mountain ride. The Canadian Ski Patrol says that brain injury is the leading cause of death and disability among individuals under the age of 45. Accidents don’t just happen at high speeds. No matter the difficulty, always have protection.
- Ice skating- Skate smart. When heading out on a pond or lake to ice skate, always make sure that the location is safe. Look for posted signs that indicate where it is safe to skate. If the sun has been out for a consecutive number of days accompanied with warmer weather, avoid skating. If you are a beginner, use wrist guards, knee pads, and elbow pads for fall protection.
- Snowshoeing- Use caution. Traveling off marked paths can be dangerous. When snowshoeing in a new territory, make sure you have a map and compass. Be aware of changing weather conditions, and make sure to get back to base before the sun goes down. Always bring plenty of fluid, dress in layers, and pack accordingly. Also, be sure to tell a friend where you are going and when to expect you back.
The winter season is a time of holiday joy. Injury and illness may aggravate your already debilitating chronic condition. If you plan on engaging in any potentially harmful winter sport, contact your Southwest Spine and Pain physician to get more information on how to stay safe and pain free!
If chronic pain is impacting your life, don't wait to schedule an appointment at Southwest Spine and Pain Center. With four locations and same day appointments, the pain management specialists at Southwest Spine and Pain Center are dedicated to helping those who suffer from chronic pain live the life they want to! To schedule an appointment, visit our locations tab!
The advice and information contained in this article is for educational purposes only, and is not intended to replace or counter a physician’s advice or judgment. Please always consult your physician before taking any advice learned here or in any other educational medical material.
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