5 Holiday Wellness Tips

As we approach the holiday season, some of you may worry about keeping up with your physical therapy and staying healthy and well. We want you to enjoy the festivities, traditions, fun, and family. Here are some tips to help you avoid pain during the holidays:

1. Stay active - Find opportunities to move around. Take a walk or go on a hike with loved ones. Involve family members in a stretching session. Avoid spending too much time in one position, preventing soreness and risk of developing blood clots. 
2. Be careful lifting - Test the object's weight before attempting to lift heavy packages. Take smaller loads, so it's less strain on your back. Distribute shopping bags weight equally on both sides of your body. 
3. Baking - Choose a surface at the level of your forearms when your elbows are bent at a right angle. This level will decrease the risk of back, neck, and shoulder strain. Long in-kitchen sessions can aggravate injuries and increase pain. Make special foods ahead of time, breaking up long sessions in the kitchen.
4. Hydrate - Beware of all the salty, delicious treats that can lead to dehydration. Drink plenty of water and then some more! 
5. Home Exercise Program (HEP) - Continue to perform your assigned home exercises. We are all different. Your exercises sometimes may seem simple. However, they are specifically chosen for you, your stage in life, and specific conditions. 

As we look forward to the approaching season, we wish you good health and a merry holiday.