5 Tips for Safe Cleaning This Spring

By Brandi Swieter

Cleaning gets done regularly in many households, but a full spring cleaning session is often needed once winter has officially left and springtime has settled in. After months of cold weather plus several holidays, homes tend to get filled with extra items that have been accumulated over this time period. One long cleaning session should not be all it takes to get the job done. Instead, follow these five tips for safe cleaning this spring to avoid overdoing it.

Use the Lunge Position While Vacuuming or Mopping

Vacuuming and mopping floors tend to be two of the toughest chores on the back. Many people choose to twist and bend while handling these tasks as they get into every nook and cranny. This practice is not recommended, as the repetitive twisting can cause serious harm to the back. Instead, a lunge position should be used during either of these activities. Step forward and bend at the knee to allow the vacuum or mop to reach farther without leaning and reaching with the arms.

Keep One Foot Rested Inside the Cabinet While Washing Dishes

Washing dishes puts major strain on the back when people lean forward and over the counter. Rather than allowing the body to strain in this way, while washing dishes, open the cabinets underneath the sink and keep one foot rested inside. This stance allows the back to remain upright and prevents the body from slouching forward. Switch between legs every few minutes to keep each leg rested.

Use the Golfer’s Reach While Doing Laundry

Too many people lean at the waist as they attempt to reach into the washing machine to make sure they’ve grabbed every last piece of clothing. This can put tension in the back and cause pain, especially when done repeatedly. The better option is to use what’s known as the golfer’s reach. As the right arm reaches down into the machine, the left leg should come up to help provide balance and stability, as well as take some of the pressure off the back.

Take Frequent Water Breaks

Spring cleaning is not a task that can get accomplished all in one day. Doing so will surely lead to back pain and problems for those who attempt it. It’s important to take frequent breaks to rest the body. During this time, people need to be sure they are hydrating with water and giving themselves the adequate time needed to recuperate after tackling each task. Break it up room by room if necessary and try to make it a two- or three-day event instead of one.

See the Chiropractor Before and After the Task

A chiropractor can help with proper body alignment, as well as offer additional guidance on how best to keep the body pain-free while handling certain tasks. See the chiropractor before attempting a full spring clean to ensure the body is best prepared to handle the work. Visit again afterward to make sure any joint restrictions get eliminated and the body can recover as quickly as possible from all the strain it’s been put through while getting the home in top shape.

To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Avon, Ind.

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