It is no surprise that snow, ice and freezing weather can create problems for people. Slips and falls are much more common during this season than any other. Those who like to indulge in winter sports and activities, however, are much more likely to injure themselves, especially if they have not stretched properly.

Here are Dr. Seaman’s tips for minimizing injuries this winter sports’ season:

• Skiing: Perform 10 to 15 squats, legs shoulder width apart, knees aligned over your feet. Lower your buttocks as you bend your knees out over your feet, then push up to standing again. Slowly does it.

• Skating: Several lunges, adopting a moderately advanced step forward with one foot, letting your back knee lower towards the floor. Keep your shoulders positioned over your hips, and repeat with your other foot.

• Tobogganing: Sitting or lying on your back, bring your knees to your chest for 30 seconds several times to guard against compression injuries caused by the shocks of bouncing down bumpy slopes.

• Cooling down is also important during and after winter exercise and sport to restore and maintain flexibility.

After all your outdoor adventures, you might have had your fill of the cold, but applying an ice pack to any sore area will ease the pain. Apply it for 20 minutes every couple of hours and it should help any pain significantly. Any pain, strain or soreness that lingers beyond two days indicates that a visit to Dr. Seaman is in order. Give our office a call at 773-545-2233 today!