International Chiropractic Pediatric AssociationChiropractors say they can’t see any reason not to expect another busy summer holiday injury period, and are gearing up for a busy time of back, spinal and neck injuries over the next two months.
The Chiropractors say just as Governments around Canada spend millions of dollars on road safety messages, similar campaigns should be introduced to warn Canadians about general summer safety during traditionally the busiest time of the year for holidaymakers. Hundreds of Canadians may suffer serious neck, back and spinal injuries as a result of careless or negligent behaviour at the beaches, rivers, lagoons and national parks.
We need a general awareness campaign throughout Canada focused on general summer safety, especially in relation to beach activity, focussed not just on drowning.
“The harsh conditions of the surf can put a strain on the spinal cord, and can pose long-term health problems if not identified and cared for properly” the chiropractic spokesperson said.
“Parents often overlook the dangers their children face in the surf, just because they may not stray far from the waters edge. But the reality is the ‘dumping’ action of the waves at low tide is what often causes injuries, and while children readily play within two metres of the beach waterline, they are often in a dangerous region to be ‘dumped’ and injured.”
“The most important rule for water safety is always, always check the depth first before diving or jumping into the water, even if the water is clear,” the chiropractic spokesperson said.
Swimmers and surf goers should be mindful of surf conditions and of swimming in between the markers where the surf conditions tend to be less harsh, to help minimise risk in the surf.
“It is similarly just as important for beach goers to minimize risk outside the surf, and to listen to their bodies when they experience small aches and pains. We see a variety of injuries ranging from simple strains and sprains to more serious injuries. Some surf injuries may initially appear minor, but unless cared for they are more than likely to re-emerge.”
“The harsh conditions of the surf and summer water activities including water-skiing can put stress on the spine and neck, which can have long-term health implications. Just consider the pressure on your spine must withstand to swim against strong currents – not to mention the implications from a wipe-out! Spinal and neck problems can upset posture and balance, and unless cared for, your risk of re-injury increases.”
Chiropractic helps to care for these misalignments that may have been a result of surf or water activity, and through regular checks, beach goers can help reduce the likelihood of re-injury.
For more information on how to treat or prevent injuries, contact Dr. Stacey Rosenberg at Gibsons Chiropractic on 604-886-7080 or your family chiropractor.
[Original article source: http://chiropractors.asn.au/]
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