Mowing the Yard: 3 Tips to Avoid Back Pain
By Virginia Laird
Mowing the yard is a task that is unavoidable and can be painful. Many people do not have a yard large enough to need a riding lawn mower, and push mowers are extremely heavy. Therefore, the question becomes, how can someone possibly mow the yard without it resulting in back pain? You can always get the kid down the street to do it, but that's not what this blog is about. There are a few things that chiropractors recommend to make sure pain is kept to a minimum while accomplishing the task of trimming the yard, including:
- Use correct posture while mowing
- Take breaks often
- Wear comfy shoes
Use Correct Posture When Mowing
There is such a thing as correct posture when pushing the mower. While many lean forward pushing mostly with the back, chiropractors will agree this is the worst posture to keep. Proper posture while mowing can allow the body to do most of the controlling and pushing with the legs and arms. This reduces the strain on the back, allowing the yard to get mowed with little to no pain.
Take Breaks Often
Although it is tempting to get started and go until the job is done, it is more important for the body to get breaks. Many yards may not seem large enough for a break to be necessary. However, keep in mind the tugging on the heavy equipment can take a toll on the body. Taking short breaks can allow the body to rest, hydrate, and regain some energy needed to finish the task. Taking breaks can help prevent the muscles from getting sore. Chiropractors recommend taking breaks every 15-20 minutes to help prevent back pain.
Wear Comfy Shoes
Wearing comfy shoes can help keep the back from getting sore and stiff. Because yard work can strain the legs and back, chiropractors suggest wearing shoes that offer some arch support to the foot. This can help prevent poor posture as well as injury. If you have never suffered from an injury in the arch of your foot, you are fortunate. It is painful and can prevent you from walking. If you do not have comfy and supportive shoes, get some; good shoes are one of the best investments that can be made.
Next time you head out to mow the yard, keep in mind these tips and hopefully they can help you complete the job free of pain.
To learn more about your health and wellness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Plymouth, Minn.