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Preventing Winter Sports Injuries

With the Sochi 2014 Winter Olympics just around the corner and the recent heavy snowfall on the East Coast, it’s certain that many people are engaging in all types of outdoor winter activities. From skiing and snowboarding to ice skating and sledding, the wintertime can help make wonderful memories with friends and family. Unfortunately, these activities can also carry the risk of injury – note the recent, tragic example of Formula 1 racer Michael Schumacher, who suffered brain injury when he fell and struck a rock while skiing. He was wearing a helmet, but currently remains in a medically induced coma. It’s important amidst the snowy fun to take safety precautions to prevent winter sports injuries.   During the winter season each year, more than 150,000 injuries occur on average from skiing, snowboarding, and sledding accidents. Fans of cold-weather outdoor activities must keep in mind the issue of safety and the possibility of injury. If it’s slippery, you may be prone to falling – and believe it or not, there is a “right” way to fall. Whether you’re on the sidewalk or subway stairs, try to take control of your fall by remaining on an angle and tucking your head.

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How to Shovel Snow Safely This Winter

With winter upon us in New York City, many of us will be tasked with shoveling snow at some point during the season. Please exercise caution,  as snow shoveling is one of the more common causes of back  injuries during the winter.  This is because most people rarely do this kind of physical work on a regular basis. When shoveling snow, it’s important to follow a few common-sense precautions and techniques to prevent injury and low back pain. To ensure efficiency and safety, there is a proper way to shovel snow. First and foremost, it’s best to use the proper tools. Keep snow as well as injuries at bay by using an ergonomic show shovel. Shovels should have a curved handle and be the proper length to prevent bending of the knees and/or arching of the back. The shovel should be light to ensure the amount of weight you’re moving repetitively is kept to a minimum. I also recommend moving small amounts in each shovelful. If possible, shoveling in this way, over a slightly longer period of time, will lessen the strain and pressure on the lower back and legs. Even if you are unable to find a shovel that

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