Don’ t Fall for Winter Blues! ’ t
Tips for Staying on Your Feet During the Cold Months
The older we get, the more concerned we are about winter. The cold season often makes us worry about the potential impact accidental slips and falls can have on our shoulders, back, and joints. Icy conditions make traveling dangerous, and patients tend to stay indoors in an effort to avoid worsening their physical health. However, no matter the season or how old we are, staying active will always help prevent future injuries. Exercise can help with balance, and your workout doesn’t have to be difficult. If you dedicate 30 minutes to walking around the house or outside with a buddy (to ensure mutual safety), it’s easy to stay active. Stretching throughout the day can greatly benefit your legs, hips, back, and neck by decreasing the strain on those muscles, too. But if you are active, you may want to ask yourself: What else causes your falls? Make sure you implement prevention strategies, such as keeping walkways clear and wearing stable, Stability Tips
nonslip shoes. Attending regular physical therapy sessions can also alleviate dizziness or balance issues and can strengthen your muscles and increase your response time in case you do fall.
Snow Shoveling Tips
You’ll likely need to shovel snow out of your driveway to get out of the house this winter. Some daily chores can’t be avoided, but they don’t have to be strenuous on your body. Along with wearing nonslip boots, make sure you take plenty of breaks and hydrate. If you feel yourself getting tired, short of breath, or having chest pains, it’s a good time to slow down. Additionally, push snow rather than lifting it and using unnecessary energy. In the case that you still slip on the ice and injure yourself, it’s incredibly important to get medical attention immediately. Your initial treatment may not be enough to heal. The enduring pain can require close monitoring and can put your body at risk for more injuries without proper recovery. If you’ve experienced an injury this winter, don’t ignore it. Relieve your daily pain by making an appointment at 717.474.8754.
Valentine’ s Day ’ s Dog Treats: Cranberry Hearts Inspired by Pretty Fluffy To paraphrase an old saying, the way to a dog’s heart is through their stomach! This Valentine’s Day, treat your dog to some pet-friendly goodies they’re sure to love!
LAUGH OUT LOUD
Ingredients
• 2 large eggs • 1 1/2 cups almond flour • 1 tbsp coconut oil
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries • 3–4 tbsp coconut flour
Directions
1. Heat oven to 325 F. 2. In a small bowl, beat eggs and set aside. In a separate bowl, combine almond flour, coconut oil, and cranberries. Pour in eggs and mix together with your hands until wet dough forms. 3. Mix in 1 tbsp of coconut flour at a time until dough easily forms into a ball. 4. Roll out dough on floured surface and cut with bite-size, heart-shaped cookie cutters. Transfer to cookie sheet lined with parchment paper. 5. Bake for 15–18 minutes or until treats are crisp. 6. Remove from oven and let treats cool completely before serving.
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