6 Tips for a Safer Autumn

By Brandi Swieter

The fall season is a beautiful time of year, but it isn’t always the safest. So many people slip and fall due to the wet leaves on the ground, rain pouring down, and many walking activities that can weaken the legs. To stay safer this autumn, all people should follow a few tips to avoid disaster.

Choose the Right Shoes

Summer is no longer, so sandals and flip-flops should get put away. The fall season often gets spent walking on nature trails to explore the changing colors, heading to fall festivals, and spending time in the yard raking leaves. Sandals do not provide enough support to keep the feet safe during any of these activities. Some non-slip, supportive shoes are needed instead for a safer autumn.

Stretch Before Chores or Activities

Fall activities, such as going to festivals or walking along trails, can weaken the legs considerably. Even doing fall chores outside, such as raking leaves, can cause harm to the body if people aren’t careful. It is best to do a few stretches before any type of exercise, and these are included. Simply bend side to side or lean forward, and also take a short walk around the yard, to get the blood pumping and the body ready to move.

Go Slow

A slow pace wins the race. People don’t need to rush through their chores or activities to get them done. Doing so can actually put unneeded stress on the body. It is best to go slow and take time to get things done so the body is not overdoing it. It will prevent an injury from occurring.

Stay Hydrated

Too many people are ready to be on the go during the fall season, especially when they have countless festivals and events to attend. Many spend hours walking along paths and enjoying the sights without ever stopping for something to drink. It is important to stay hydrated by drinking water when on these excursions so the body does not get overworked and dehydrated.

Do Not Overuse Space Heaters

Once autumn arrives, many people start turning on their space heaters to get it warm inside their homes. While this is fine to do, it is important to note that they should not get overused. Don’t ever leave them running while away from home because they tend to catch fire easily.

Wear Bright Colors at Night

Countless people fill the streets and sidewalks on summer nights, staying up way past curfew to enjoy the season. Once fall arrives, the nights start to come earlier, with the sky getting dark at an earlier time. It is important to wear bright colors if you’ll be out at night so drivers can notice if there are people along the roadside.

Anyone who experiences pain from raking leaves, attending a fall festival, or performing other fall activities should seek the help of a chiropractor. Visit The Joint Chiropractic to receive a full workup and see what the problem may be at the time. You may also receive advice on preventing the same injury from happening later on in the season.

To learn more about your health and wellness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Pinole, Calif.