Avoid Injuries While Shopping

Written by Kristi Runyon

Wednesday, 09 December 2009 13:48

Some shoppers may feel the pain this holiday shopping season and not just in their wallets.

KORT News Release:

Shopping Safety Tips

LEXINGTON, Ky. – Only 60 more shopping days until Christmas, and even a lack luster economy won’t keep shoppers away this holiday season. The theme, “shop ‘til you drop,” may be closer to the truth for some shoppers who suffer neck, back and shoulder injuries during holiday excursions to the mall.
“Wearing inappropriate shoes, staying on your feet too long, lifting packages that are too heavy and carrying too many bags can all lead to injuries. For example, people tend to hold all their packages in one hand or hold a really heavy package in their dominate hand and a lighter package in their weaker hand. This puts you off balance and can lead to back strain,” said Tricia Brown KORT physical therapist.
Brown says as shoppers load up on everything from toys to clothing, they need to keep some important safety tips in mind.
 Distribute the weight of packages equally on both sides of your body.
 To prevent wrist strain and avoid injury, keep wrists straight while holding bags, not cocked or bent.
 Consider bringing a back pack or large tote bags to carry your purchases. A small, personal shopping cart or a baby stroller can also be used to tote around purchases.
 Wear comfortable shoes made for walking. Wearing high heels on hard surfaces can contribute to foot and ankle injuries.
 Don’t lug around heavy or overstuffed bags for long periods. If necessary, take your bags back to your car then return to the store for additional shopping.
 Test an object’s weight by pushing it with your foot to determine how heavy it is before attempting to lift it.
 When lifting a package or bag, keep your feet shoulder-width apart and bend your knees. Stand close to the package, bend your legs, keep your back straight and lift. Remember to always lift with your legs, NOT your back.
If an injury does occur it’s important to take it seriously and seek medical attention, says Brown.
“What begins as a minor problem could become much more severe and prolonged if early intervention does not occur. No one wants to spend their holiday season nursing an aching back or shoulder,” said Brown.
Locally managed and operated, Kentucky Orthopedic Rehab Team (KORT) is an outpatient physical and occupational therapy company that provides sports medicine to local high schools and colleges. KORT athletic trainers provide injury prevention and care, returning athletes to play as quickly and safely as possible. With more than 20 years experience in the Physical Therapy Industry, KORT operates over 35 clinics throughout Kentucky and Southern Indiana, with more board-certified specialists than any other physical therapy provider in Kentucky. For more information visit www.kort.com

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