So, this is Christmas!!

.......... and what have you done?

Ooops! Oh, Santa!

Seriously though, many common musculoskeletal conditions occur over the Christmas break as people tend to push their bodies. Whether it’s spraining your ankle in high heels at a Christmas party, a musculoskeletal injury from an intense run along the beach after months of inactivity, or low back pain from driving for long distances or lying poorly on the couch watching Xmas movies – there are a range of injuries to watch out for this season.
 
Read more here for tips to keep you in a healthy festive spirit.

1. Avoid sitting for long periods
   With sitting now considered the new smoking, this inactivity can lead to short-term effects like low back pain, but is also linked to chronic diseases such as obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease.
   Physical inactivity or low levels of physical activity is the fourth leading cause of death worldwide
   
   Avoid sitting in one spot for more than 30 minutes without a short break. Get up and move about for at least two minutes every 20-30 minutes. Regular changes in posture have also been shown improve comfort and reduce the risk of musculoskeletal injuries.

 

1. Get active 
   Sometimes the greatest gift of all can be spending time outdoors away from the glaring screens that dominate our lives. Getting a little more physical activity into your day doesn’t have to be a chore.
   
   
   
2. Buy gifts that encourage physical activity 
   Worldwide, children’s fitness has been declining at the rate of 3% to 5% per decade since 1970.
   This Christmas consider a present like a cricket bat, netball or a frisbee that will encourage physical activity and ultimately lead to healthy lifestyle choices in the long run. A great way too for you and your children to have some fun and quality time together outdoors.

 

1.  Start slowly and build up 
   To avoid any injuries from getting out and active, it’s best to start slowly and gradually build up. Be mindful to take it easy if you have a previous injury and of your capabilities. Plan ahead and moderate your activities to reduce the chance of injuries.

 

1. Don’t ignore the pain
   If you do injure yourself over the holidays, don’t ignore the pain. If you have pain or swelling over the holidays, come and see us – no referral is needed. Our Physiotherapists are highly qualified and trained to assess and treat all sorts of injuries and will help you get back to enjoying your new year.

MERRY XMAS EVERYONE FROM THE TEAM AT
 
 
NorthWest Physio +
​4B Shamrock Drive
Kumeu
Auckland

09 412 2945
[email protected]
www.northwestphysioplus.co.nz

Monday - Friday    
​7am - 6pm​

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