How to Handle the Aches and Pains of Moving
By Paul Rothbart
Fortunately, people don't generally move very often. It can be one of the most tedious, stress-inducing jobs anyone encounters. Organizing, carefully packing, and moving all of one's possessions safely from one home to another is certainly not easy. It's when moving that you realize how much stuff you actually own. When the task is finally done and you sit exhausted in your new home, contemplating getting rid of some of your possessions, you may find yourself in pain. Injuries, small and not so small, are common when moving. It's important to take steps to prevent them from occurring and to treat them when they do.
Common Moving Injuries
There are several injuries that commonly occur when moving. Perhaps the most common is a sore and strained back. Moving involves lifting heavy objects such as furniture and boxes. It's easy to fall into poor lifting techniques in an effort to finish the job quickly. Injuries to the knees and ankles are also common. They do bear the brunt of what you are carrying as well as your body weight. It's easy to slip on stairs and wrench a knee or ankle. Wet pavement can also be a problem. Broken fingers and toes also sometimes happen. People often drop heavy objects in haste and they land on a foot or hand.
Preventing Injuries
The key to preventing injuries when moving is to plan carefully and allow yourself enough time to work without rushing. Lift with your legs, keeping your back straight. Team lift very heavy objects. Don't overpack boxes and wear gloves, boots, and a back brace. Use caution on stairs and put down a ramp where you can. Be mindful of weather conditions when moving outdoors. Make sure everyone is clear before setting anything down. If you can afford it, the best safety measure is to hire professional movers. They have the training, experience, and equipment to do the job properly and safely.
See a Chiropractor
Seeing a chiropractor after moving when your body is sore makes sense. But seeing one before the move is also a good idea. The chiropractor can find any subluxations in the back and joints that could be exacerbated by the move. You can take on the task with a body that is functioning at its best. In fact, regular chiropractic care can be helpful in your day-to-day life. Moving would be just one more task that your visits can help with.
Moving is a big project that can become necessary for various reasons. It's a tough chore that can bring pain and injury. Take caution when moving and consider a visit to The Joint Chiropractic. No appointment is needed and you may find that regular chiropractic care helps you manage all of life's difficult tasks as well as moving.
To learn more about your health, wellness and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Gainesville, Ga.