Chiropractic Tips to Avoid Pain When Pumpkin Carving

By Brandi Swieter 

Pumpkin carving is a popular pastime during the fall months. However, many fail to realize just how painful the activity can be. Anyone hoping to carve pumpkins should follow some chiropractic tips if they wish to remain pain-free while doing so. Sitting at the table hunched over a pumpkin vigorously attempting to carve out a face can do harm to the back if people aren’t careful.

See the Chiropractor First

Many people have joint restrictions within their bodies even if they may not realize it. Removing these restrictions can be a huge help in ensuring the body is adequately prepared to handle a strenuous task such as pumpkin carving. The activity can put major strain on the back and body if people don’t exercise caution, so visiting a chiropractor first can be beneficial.

Stretch the Arms

The arms get in a good workout during pumpkin carving after all the time spent digging out the insides and carving a face or image into the front of it. Stretching out the body, particular the arms, beforehand can be a huge help. It will ensure they remain pain-free and avoid injury during the process. Reaching up to the sky, locking the hands behind the back, and even a few simple shoulder rolls should all be tried.

Use a Standing Desk

Too many pumpkin carvers sit at the kitchen table or even on the ground surrounded by newspaper. The goal is usually to keep the space clean from all the pumpkin guts. Most aren’t thinking about their backs. A standing desk is actually one of the best places to carve a pumpkin. People who remain standing and handling the task at the ideal level will be more likely to avoid pain. Others tend to hunch over while making their creations, causing back and shoulder pain.

Dry the Hands Regularly

Pumpkins can get slippery. Not only does this create a possibility of injury due to the knife used in the process, but it can also cause pain in the hands and arms. If a person’s hands slip off the pumpkin they can injure a joint or muscle. Keeping the hands as dry as possible throughout the process will be a huge help in preventing this.

The act of carving a pumpkin is a popular fall pastime that many enjoy. That doesn’t mean they have to deal with the pain if it comes, though. Anyone wanting to enjoy the activity without pain should follow these chiropractic tips for a better experience. Visit The Joint Chiropractic afterward for an adjustment if pain still persists.

To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Phoenix, Ariz.