WEST MICHIGAN – When West Michigan’s winter weather gets extreme, more people are forced to head to the doctor.
“In the last three to four weeks things have definitely increased,” said David Harrison, Chiropractor.
Harrison has been treating patients for 27 years. He says weather changes often play a role in filling his office with low back injuries and bumps to the head.
“The biggest thing we`re seeing I think is an increase in auto accidents,” said Harrison.
In addition to injuries caused by crashes on slippery roads, people are also seeing their doctors from slips and falls on foot.
Sidewalks, stairs and parking lots have been full of black ice.
Even if you catch yourself, the twisting and jerking motions can still cause injury.
Some folks are also overdoing it when they head out to clear their driveways and sidewalks by shovel.
“This weekend use your common sense,” said Harrison. “We`re supposed to get six to 10 inches and I think people just have to take it a little at a time and not over do it. Stretch out before you go out and shovel when you come back in, rest. Don`t do too much at a time.”
The extreme changes in pressure and temperature are also causing aches and pains for those with arthritis or other types of inflammation.
“When the barometric pressure changes as much as it has been, yeah, I think you definitely see an inflammation in the joints,” said Harrison. “The older you are the worse it gets.”
If you are feeling aches and pains caused by this weather, Harrison said don’t wait to see your doctor.
