Winter in Michigan is here to stay, at least for now that is. Some individuals choose to stay indoors during the frigid months or even take their New Year’s workout regimen to the gym instead of subjecting themselves to the bitter cold. Trying to find the motivation to squeeze a workout into a busy day is already tough enough without freezing winds and piles of snow, creating additional willpower roadblocks. However, for those dedicated to tough out the winter air, there are some key factors to staying safe and injury-free.
Common Winter Injuries:
- Falling on the ice or snow
- Muscle strains or tendonitis from shoveling snow
- Motor vehicle collisions
- Fractures and sprains while playing winter sports
Not all injuries are considered severe; for the elderly falling and breaking a hip could be catastrophic.
Winter Injury Prevention Tips:
- Regularly salt driveways, sidewalks, and stairs.
- Walk carefully across parking lots; provide children and seniors with additional support.
- Stay hydrated while exercising and shoveling snow.
- Ensure proper foot wear, gloves, and a hat when shoveling snow or cleaning off the car.
- Wear a helmet and protective equipment during winter sports.
- Always supervise children playing outdoors in the snow.
- Most businesses and shopping centers take precautions to salt their parking lots and sidewalks once winter hits. Even still, patches may be missed, or ice may have formed since the last salting. When rushing into the stores and shopping centers, slow down and take your time to carefully walk across the parking lot.
