Chiropractic Care for Fall Activities
By Donna Stark
Welcome to fall! And welcome to everything it has to offer. It seems that with every change in season, there is also a change in our activities, and if we aren't careful, our backs can pay the price! It's important to prioritize the health of your spine while you are raking those colorful leaves in your yard, picking those sweet apples at the local orchard, carrying the soon-to-be jack-o'-lanterns to the car, and trekking through the woods during your weekend hikes, and it's easy to do when you follow these tips and see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic regularly!
Raking Leaves
Don't be fooled by the pretty colors. Raking leaves and packing them into bags is a serious workout! So before you even start, warm your body up with a few stretches and as you are working, take frequent breaks. Don't pack the bags so full of leaves that it is difficult to lift and carry, and always remember the proper technique for doing so!
Apple and Pumpkin Picking
Although nothing screams fall as much as apple orchards and pumpkin patches do, you need to be mindful of the potential strain you are placing on your back. So before you lift your child to reach those high apples or bend down to pick up that 50-pound pumpkin your family chose, consider the following tips.
- Do some light stretches before you engage
- Bend at the knees and use the strength of your legs to help lift
- Keep your spine in a neutral position
- Ask for help with those heavy items or with putting your child on your shoulders
Fall Hikes
As enticing as a fall hike is, you still need to plan with the health and safety of your back in mind! Pack only the essentials in your backpack and try to keep it as light as possible! If possible, share the weight by having another person wear a backpack too! Also, make sure you are wearing the right shoes to hike in so that your body stays on the trail and you aren't slipping and sliding your way through the trees, putting your spine at risk for injury (not to mention the scratches, bumps and bruises).
Chiropractic Care for Fall Activities
Your local chiropractors at The Joint Chiropractic have your back and want you to enjoy all of your fall activities as much as you can, free of pain, discomfort, and injury. Take a look at some of the benefits that regular chiropractic care can provide.
- Alleviates back and neck pain
- Improves your range of motion, flexibility, and balance
- Improves joint and muscle function
- Reduces fall allergy symptoms
So take a few minutes to stop by and get adjusted today! With more than 475 locations nationwide, no appointment required, and daily hours, it couldn't be any easier to stay healthy and active while also staying involved in the glorious activities of the season!
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Phoenix, Ariz.