Howard: Staying Safe In Cold Weather

Howard: Staying Safe In Cold Weather

Health

& Fitness

Check out the BracePlace!

4 TIPS FOR STAYING SAFE IN THE COLD WEATHER

The winter season is among us, which means warm fires, cozy blankets, the comfort of friends and family… However, it unfortunately also means slippery surfaces and plummeting temperatures. Winter can be a difficult time for orthotic and prosthetic users, but there are some steps you can take to make sure you stay happy, healthy, and safe during these chilly times. (continued inside)

4 TIPS FOR STAYING SAFE IN THE COLD WEATHER

1. Adjust as needed. The fit of your or- thotic or prosthetic can change due to fluctuations in weather – for example, when the weather is hot and humid, parts of the body can swell. When the weather drops, the swelling will go away, and those same parts of the body may become tight. This means that you may have to adjust the fit of your orthotic or prosthetic at different points throughout the year, depending on how your body reacts to changes in the weather. Making sure it’s properly fitted is crucial, especially when the ground becomes icy and slick. If you feel as if yours may be loosening up, make sure to contact us as soon as possible so we can fix it for you. 2. Add to your stability. Snow and ice are the main culprits for many injuries during the winter time. Especially if you are a new orthotic or prosthetic user, it is important to be careful on slippery surfaces. You can add to your stability by wearing shoes with proper traction, and/or making sure that your prosthet- ic has the proper traction at the bottom of it. Ice cleats or rubber-soled boots can provide you with grip and support.

Using a cane or crutch can also help in remaining steady on frozen terrain. 3. Avoid uncomfortable sinking. The chill, drafty air that winter mornings and nights bring can lead to an uncom- fortable sinking into your prosthetic’s socket. Many people who experience this sensation report a “pinching” feel- ing. One simple way to avoid sinking is to fill the gaps of the sockets with rolled-up socks. Consulting with us can also help you determine if-and- when sinking may become an issue. 4. Contact us! If at any point you feel pain or discomfort this winter, don’t hesitate to contact us. At How- ard Orthotics and Prosthetics, we are dedicated to our patients and their suc- cess. We want you to be as comfort- able as possible as you sip hot cocoa and watch the snow fall. While we hope there won’t be any aches or pains com- ing your way, we are always here to as- sist you in the event that there are. Our dedicated team will provide you with any help and support you need to take this winter by storm!

www.howardrehabcenter.com

Patient Success Story

Answered all of my questions! Success Story - Raymond J.

“The provider was very good and took time on how to use and put on the knee brace. He also answered all of my questions I had for him.” They provide the best care! Success Story - Jason D. “They provide the best care for what they do! Other facilities could use them as a role model for their care.” Would definitely come here again! Success Story - Christopher “They were an amazing, fast, and courteous staff; from the call to leaving the office. Would definitely come here again. Thank you!”

Come in for a FREE Check-up

Do Your Orthotics Need a Tune Up?

FREE 15 Minute Check-Up • Consult with our experts • Review your problem • Receive recommendations on relieving your pain and improving motion

Roger Howard, CPO, Director

CALL TODAY (315) 786-8973

Offer good for the First 20 people who schedule. Expires 02/28

4 5 2 7 Trail Mix

2 3 8 6

4

2 1

7

9 5 7 3 2 1

4

5 8

5

2

9 4 7 8

9 8 6 5

9

3

http://1sudoku.com

n° 229777 - Level Medium

http://1su

7 INGREDIENTS • 1 cup raw almonds • 3/4 cup raw cashews • 2/3 cup raw pumpkin seeds 1 6

3 9 6 • 1/3 cup raw sunflower seeds • 2 tbsp unsweetened dried cranberries, chopped • 2 tbsp vegan dark chocolate chips • sea salt for taste 2 8 9

3 8 1 7 5

4

3 5

4 8 2

3 9 6 DIRECTIONS Chop any large ingredients if necessary to make everything about the same size. Give the dried fruit a light sprinkle of sea salt before you mix it in (it sticks better), or sprinkle the whole mix with salt if you prefer. Combine all ingredients in a bowl and enjoy! Store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.

4 5

7

9 2 5

4 1

4 2 6 SUDOKU PUZZLE 8 http://1sudoku.com n° 228310 - Level Medium

http://1su

5 2

8

9

6

4

2 6

9

2 3 8 1 3 7 6 2 9 4 9 7 2 7 3 5 7 4 3 1 6

5 3 8 2

http://1sudoku.com

n° 28718 - Level Medium

http://1su

Exercise Essentials

Try this simple exercise to help you feel better... Always consult your physical therapist or physician before starting exercises you are unsure of doing.

HIP HIKES While standing up on a step, lower one leg down- ward towards the floor by tilting your pelvis to the side. Then return the pelvis/leg back to a leveled position.

Exercises copyright of

www.simpleset.net

S H A R E P l ease sha r e t hese exercises with friends and family members to help them stay healthy and free from pain. S A V E Save these in a place where you can easily use them as needed. Watch for more exercises in our next issue.

We Listen, We Care, We Get Results CALL TODAY (315) 786-8973