The Christmas To-Do List: Don't Break Your Back
By Virginia Laird
Is your Christmas to-do list as long as Santa’s nice list? One of the most trying chores can be dragging out the holiday decorations and decorating the yard for the season. Because of the pulling and tugging on heavy boxes and piles of lights, this can cause a great deal of back pain. Chiropractors have offered several suggestions to help prevent back pain while checking items off your list, including:
- Line up help before beginning
- Take breaks often
- Know your limits
- Routine chiropractic visits are a must
Line Up Help Before Beginning
Although you may be one who prefers to work alone, working in the yard alone can put strain on the back and spine, which can cause function restriction. Chiropractors recommend recruiting help before setting out to hang the lights in your yard. This can help you avoid injury from overuse while taking on the dreadful and exciting chore of getting the yard holiday ready.
Take Breaks Often
Working in a strenuous manner for long periods of time can put stress on the back muscles as well as the spine. Chiropractors suggest those working in the yard should take frequent breaks. During these breaks it is a good idea to stretch lightly, helping to release built-up tension. Taking breaks can also serve as a reminder to hydrate. Make sure to get off your feet some, too. Sitting for a brief time is another way to release tension in the back.
Know Your Limits
Don’t overdo it. While many would rather ignore the boundaries they should adhere to, it is best to know your limits and quit while you are ahead. Chiropractors suggest when protecting the back from pain, it is vital to recognize when you can do no more or when you cannot accomplish something alone. Chiropractors also suggest that doing too much can cause injury to the back and spine, which can be hard to overcome.
Routine Chiropractic Visits are a Must
Routine chiropractic visits can help patients maintain function in the spine as well as manage back pain. Some describe chiropractic care as therapeutic while others report an increase in flexibility. The majority of patients will admit that chiropractic care promotes a healthy posture. If you struggle with back or neck issues, chiropractic care may be what you need to reduce pain without invasive procedures.
Getting started on your personalized health care plan, stop by The Joint Chiropractic nearest you. There are no appointments accepted, making it easy to get in when you need to be seen most. With more than 390 locations nationwide, you are certain to find one near you.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Lakewood, Colo.