Released on = December 6, 2005, 3:56 pm

Press Release Author = Big Buzz Idea Group

Industry = Consumer Services

Press Release Summary = Baking, shopping, traveling and gift wrapping can take a
toll on the body. Proper stretching and better planning help reduce muscle tension
so that you can enjoy this festive time of year.

Press Release Body = **For the complete article with additional tips, visit
http://www.bigbuzzideagroup.com/site/epage/30362_481.htm.

The holidays are a joyous time, but for many, it can be physically and
emotionally draining. This time of the year generally means lots of
shopping, baking and hours of gift wrapping which can translate into a
variety of aches and pains that ruin your holiday enjoyment.

"Many patients return to physical therapy complaining of aches and pains associated
with the season. Usually these problems are the result of doing holiday related
activities for prolonged periods of time," explained Michelle Dwyer, DPT, of
Physiotherapy Associates (Chicago). "Most people will feel the strains of the
holiday activities but 'soldier on' anyway which then increases the chance for
injury."

Dwyer's advice? "Listen to your body, and when you feel a strain coming on stop
what you are doing and take a few minutes to stretch. Stretching reduces muscle
tension and helps prevent long-term damage."

Shopping Risk: Foot and ankle injuries (such as shin splints and heel pain known as
plantar fascitis) occur due to long hours of walking and carrying bags in high heels
or uncomfortable shoes on hard surfaces such as mall floors, sidewalks and asphalt.

Tip(s): Be sure to wear comfortable shoes with good support. Stretch the calf
muscle when you get home by sitting with your legs extended in front of you, wrap a
towel around the foot and gently pull toward you 3 times for each foot, holding
each pull for 30 seconds.

Shopping Risk: Trying to carry all your packages in one hand/arm or simply carrying
too much at one time can create muscle strain in the neck, shoulders, forearms and
back.
Tip(s): Balance the weight of your packages evenly between both hands/arms. When the
load you are carrying becomes uncomfortable, you should take a walk to the car and
unload. Not only will you remove the strain to your arms and back, but a brisk walk
in the crisp air will help lower your stress level during the holiday season. Clasp
hands together behind your back and take a deep breath while rotating the shoulders
outward.

Wrapping Risk: Sitting/kneeling on the floor can strain on the lower back, leading
to muscle tightness in the hips and straining the knees.
Tip(s): Sit at a table and take frequent breaks to stand and stretch.

Wrapping Risk: Excessive use of scissors and wrapping can strain the hands and
forearms.
Tip(s): Stretch the forearm by extending the arm in front of you with the hand
flexed downward (fingers pointing toward the floor) for 30 seconds; then flex
fingers toward the ceiling for 30 seconds.

Remember to consult your physician for persistent problems or any time you question
the extent of an injury.
Physiotherapy Associates offers free screenings at all Chicagoland locations. Call
312.944.7595 to find the facility closest to you.



Web Site = http://www.bigbuzzideagroup.com/

Contact Details = Melissa Kline