Doctors of chiropractic commend injury prevention awareness

April 5, 2011 — The American Chiropractic Association (ACA) reminds everyone that doctors of chiropractic can help play an important role in the prevention and treatment of many common injuries.

This reminder comes as communities across the country are observing National Public Health Week 2011 (NPHW). The theme of this year’s observance — “Safety is NO Accident” — focuses on preventing injury at home, work or play.

In general, doctors of chiropractic promote the value of prevention as a key component of health and wellness. They routinely provide recommendations to patients on topics such as proper lifting techniques, improving balance through exercise, workstation ergonomics and using mobile technology safely — all of which can prevent injury.

This week, ACA is highlighting its library of patient information and videos offering tips on how to prevent injuries at home, work and play.

Should injury occur, doctors of chiropractic offer expert examination and treatment that gets patients back to work, in the game and able to enjoy their activities of daily living.

“Injuries happen in a split second, but have lasting consequences,” said ACA Vice President Keith Overland, DC. “However, simple preventative measures, a healthy lifestyle and appropriate healthcare will reduce the number of injuries a person experiences and minimize the impact of any injuries that do occur.”

Since 1995, when the first full week of April was declared NPHW, communities across the country have celebrated and recognized the contributions of public health and highlighted issues that are important to improving the public’s health.

The American Public Health Association (APHA) serves as the organizer of NPHW and develops a national campaign to educate the public, policy-makers and practitioners about issues related to that year’s theme. APHA creates comprehensive planning, organizing, and outreach materials that can be used during and after the week to raise awareness. APHA has featured a section devoted to chiropractic and its role in public health since 1995.

For more information about how doctors of chiropractic can help prevent and treat common injuries, visit http://www.acatoday.org/prevention.

For general information about this year’s NPHW observance, visit http://www.nphw.org/nphw11/first1.htm.

Source: American Chiropractic Association, www.acatoday.org