Holiday Decorating Done the Chiropractor's Way
By Brandi Swieter
Decorating for the holidays is a major task that can take its toll on the body. People who tackle the job need to be extremely careful so they do not end up getting injured or pulling a muscle. The bending and reaching so often accompanying the job duty can be avoided when holiday decorating is done the chiropractor's way.
Have Decorations at the Ready
It's best to have everything ready to go. Avoid leaving things in boxes and going to grab one item at a time as they get set up. Instead, sort through the boxes and get all the items out and sorted so they're within reach. This prevents overworking and reaching for things.
Tackle One Location at a Time
Decorators should never attempt to reach far. People need to tackle just one location at a time, hanging up items in just one area. They can then readjust and move to the next location as necessary, continuing the process until all locations have been decorated. Reaching can lead to muscle strain or even a pulled muscle, so it's best to avoid it altogether.
Wear a Brace
A brace can be a huge help when tackling any strenuous activity. All of the work it takes to decorate a home both inside and out, or even just one or the other, can cause discomfort. A brace helps to limit spine movement and keep the back in place. It helps to prevent unnecessary straining and possible injury.
Wear the Right Shoes
Outdoor decorating requires the right shoes. Wearing flats or heavy boots won't work well when a ladder's involved. It's best to wear a pair of comfortable, non-slip shoes when taking on the job. It will ensure a stable grip and prevent falls.
Enlist a Partner
Handling all of the decorating duties alone will be time consuming. Enlisting a partner to help will cut down the time and also ensures there is someone else there in case something goes wrong. It's especially ideal when a ladder's involved. One person can go up and down while the other holds the ladder still and hands the other the items to place.
Hire Professionals
Some people already suffer from back pain or have other reasons for not wanting to tackle all of the decorating themselves. Even with help, the job is a hefty one. Hiring professionals is possible. Handymen with experience installing lights and hanging decor are best for the job. They'll have all the right equipment and knowledge of the process to get the job done efficiently and safely.
Visit The Joint Chiropractic if needed after a day spent decorating. It can be quite painful if people don't use caution. Even with chiropractic recommendations followed, there may still be some discomfort experienced after all the hard work. Removing joint restrictions may be necessary.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Phoenix, Ariz.