Preventing Back Pain While Working in the Yard
By Virginia Laird
With the beauty of spring comes the impending necessity for working in the yard to make things beautiful. As you begin planning your work, chiropractors advise that you keep in mind your back and take all precautions to prevent pain and injury. A few tips to help you avoid such pain include:
- Avoid lifting things that are too heavy
- Use the right tools
- Take breaks often
- Check in with your chiropractor
Avoid Lifting Things That Are Too Heavy
As you begin to work in your yard this spring, chiropractors remind us that it is imperative that you avoid lifting items that are too heavy. Although you may not find yourself surrounded by many heavy items, the combination of several items can be brutal for the back. Rather than trying to lift heavy loads, these chiropractors suggest that you invest in a wheelbarrow to help you haul around your load. If this is not an option, it is also recommended that you reach out to friends to help you share the load. Protecting your back is a great way to keep you on your feet and enjoying your yard.
Use the Right Tools
While there are many who believe yard tools are one size fits all, this is not the case. Chiropractors advise that before you invest in any yard tools that you give them a try. While your tools may appear to be the same, the lengths of handles can be different. Selecting the tool that fits you best is a great way to prevent the need for hunching, which can lead to back pain.
Take Breaks Often
As you begin to work in the yard this spring, chiropractors suggest that taking breaks is imperative to prevent back pain. Chiropractors advise that you should take a break at least once each hour. During these breaks you should seek to get off your feet, stretch your back and legs, and allow time for hydrating. Taking plenty of breaks can play a key role in keeping you on your feet and the pain at bay.
Check In With Your Chiropractor
For those who struggle with back pain, it can be necessary to check in with your chiropractor prior to heading out to the yard. Chiropractors work hard to keep the joints of the spine free from restriction. However, through regular daily activity, often these joints shift in and out of restricted positions which can lead to pain and injury. If you are serious about keeping this type of pain at bay, it is time to drop by The Joint Chiropractic in your community. With more than 450 locations nationwide you are sure to find one near you. And with no appointment necessary, getting seen is as easy as dropping by on your way home from work.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Scottsdale, Ariz.