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Let it snow, let it rain, let it freeze.  Yep, January’s being as unkind to us as ever, with temperatures at -1c looking almost warm compared to some of the barrages we’ve been getting.

We’ve already fallen over once on the ice, and we want to make sure you don’t do the same thing – it’s not big, it’s not clever, and it leaves bruises!

Tim Hutchful, from the British Chiropractic Association, is here with our Top Of The Tips chart rundown for what to do when the pavements are more slippery than a greased eel.

At number 5, it’s that old favourite: Keep Your Wits
–           Try to avoid alcohol. Not only will you be more prone to feeling the adverse effects of the cold (because alcohol causes loss of body heat) but it may also cause you to take risks that you wouldn’t normally do and, of course, make you more unsteady on your feet. Keep topped up with warm drinks to keep your temperature up.

And coming in at number 4: Falling Gracefully
–           If you do fall, try and curl up and ‘roll’ with the fall and stay relaxed, this will minimise any jarring to your body. Whilst it may be an automatic reaction, try to avoid putting your hands out to save you – this may cause wrist injuries.

At number 3, we’ve got: Be Prepared
–           There are things you can do to prepare yourself for better balance. Standing on one leg, as an exercise, is a great way to help improve your balance.
–           When you are out and about, keeping your hands out of your pockets (use gloves) so that you can use your arms for better balance is a great idea too.
–           Watch out for parts of the pavement that may have been in shadow or under trees, where there is more likely be black ice, but make sure you pay attention to what is ahead too!

Settling for the number 2 spot, it’s: Top Gear
–           Clothing should be warm and allow you to move freely. Anything that impedes you from walking ‘normally’ could make you more prone to falling over or lead to you walking in an unnatural way.

Which means that for a second year, taking the Winter #1 slot, it’s Best foot forward:
–           Make sure you wear shoes with chunky treads, solid soles and avoid shoes with no ankle supports.  It’s yes to sturdy work boots and a no-no to ballet flats.  Wellies are tricky to take off and can jar your back.  Lace up sturdy shoes, warm socks and common sense are the order of the day.  Ladies, I know you might be going for a night out, but you won’t look pretty if you show up with a twisted ankle because of your heels!

Follow these tips, and by March you should be ready to spring into better weather!