Avoid Getting Injured on Black Friday: How Not To Get Trampled This Black Friday 2017

At Optimal Health Chiropractic and Massage in Edmonds, WA, our goal is to help you feel your best. To do that, we often recommend preventative care and screenings. And, we provide comprehensive back pain treatments when the pain becomes intense. However, at the heart of this comes preparing you with ways to reduce your overall risk of injury. For Black Friday 2017, we have a few key recommendations that can help you to stay safe no matter how rough it gets out there.

How can you stay safe this holiday shopping season? No matter if you head out before dawn, shop all night, or just pick up the deals as you go, these tips will prepare you for Black Friday 2017.

It's an Athletic Event

When that door opens, it is all men and women for themselves. In many ways, this is an athletic event in that it pushes your body's limits. To ensure you can handle it, up the game a bit by preparing for it as you would any other sporting event. Stretch before you get started. Be sure your hips, legs, neck, and shoulders rotate easily. You'll want to ensure your muscles are limber and blood is pumping to get your body moving faster.

Focus on Hydration

It's easy to skip the water when you are focused in on the deals. However, coffee isn't enough. Your body needs both water and electrolytes to keep you hydrated for long hours on the sales floor. Be sure you've invested in proper hydration (not just those high-sugar, caffeine drinks either).

Wear the Right Shoes

Your feet will need to keep you moving. If they get tired, you'll give up. The best way to keep your feet comfortable and in the best shape to work is to choose posture-appropriate shoes. Insoles (especially those that are customized to your feet) can help reduce fatigue in your feet. In addition, be sure the shoes you wear are laced up tightly and, if possible, offer a bit of ankle support. For example, high heels are very bad for your posture overall.

Give Your Body a Break or Two

The car ride between stores is not enough. You also need to give your body time to wind down. Let the adrenaline levels come down. Catch a nap if you can. If not, be sure to spend at least 20 to 30 minutes off your feet for every hour you are shopping. This is a physically demanding experience that can test your body's limits. A break helps to fuel your body long-term. Before you get started again, be sure to stretch a bit, too.

Support Your Back

It's quite common for shoppers to develop pain in their lower back and shoulders. To avoid this, start by wearing a supportive band around the waist. You also do not want to carry all of your heavy bags in one hand. Instead, rent a locker for the day. Don't twist or turn so fast that you cause a misalignment of your spinal column. You'll also want to address any type of back pain you have in advance of this big day, too. A spinal column adjustment can help prepare your back and minimizes the risk of injury later on.

Be a Smart Shopper

One of the easiest ways to avoid the risk of injury is not to be at the head of the line. Skip those limited quantity gifts (have someone buy them at home, online instead). You can then focus on shopping the other deals without racing. You don't want to be hurt.

Did You Suffer an Injury?

Even with all of this prep work, it is possible to suffer an injury during Black Friday shopping. Remember this throughout the holiday season. Shopping in to see your Edmonds chiropractor on a routine basis is a good thing even if you do not have significant pain. It is the perfect way to treat an injury such as a sharp pain, limited movement, or range of motion concern. However, it can also give you a bit of a boost in preventing further damage.

Struggling with an Injury? Schedule an Appointment with Your Edmonds Chiropractor

If you do suffer any type of injury, contact your Edmonds chiropractor immediately for an appointment. Our team at Optimal Health Chiropractic and Massage will provide you with the one-on-one, customized care you need to overcome your injury so you can get back to shopping the deals.