Hanging Christmas Lights Can Be Painful
By Virginia Laird
The thrill of putting up the holiday decorations ends the moment the closet (or attic) is opened and the view of dusty boxes are staring you in the face. Decorating begins with the struggle of dragging out heavy boxes, which can be problematic and painful for the back. Chiropractors across the nation warn patients that emergency rooms see an increase in visits for back related pain this time of year. Many of those suffering from pain will admit it all began while bringing the holiday decorations out of storage. A few tips to help prevent back pain include:
- Routine visits to the chiropractor can help manage pain
- Allowing time for breaks while decorating can help keep pain levels low
- Ladder position is key to preventing some of the pain when hanging lights
Routine Visits to the Chiropractor Can Help Manage Pain
Chiropractors specialize in caring for the spine by restoring function. As the spine shifts it can cause restriction of function, which can result in both pain and injury. One of the benefits of chiropractic care is that routine visits can help manage pain without the need for pain medicine.
Allowing Time for Breaks While Decorating Can Help Keep Pain Levels Low
When you plan to drag out the decorations and hit the yard ready to make it look fabulous for the holidays, it is best to allow plenty of time to complete the job. Being in a hurry can cause unneeded stress and anxiety, which can cause tension in the back. Chiropractors suggest it is best to allow for time to take frequent breaks when accomplishing difficult tasks.
Ladder Position is Key to Preventing Some Pain While Hanging Lights
In an effort to reduce such pain, chiropractors suggest looking into the ladder position. Whether you realize it or not, ladder position plays a huge role in preventing pain. When setting up the ladder to reach the necessary area, it is best to keep the arms where the reach is in front of the body rather than directly overhead. Looking directly over your head can cause incredible pain in the neck.
To begin your personalized pain prevention plan, stop by The Joint Chiropractic in your local community. With more than 390 locations nationwide, you are sure to find one near you. There are no appointments needed making your care as convenient as you need it to be. Getting started can be as simple as dropping in on your way home from work or even during your lunch.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Ft. Lauderdale, Fla.