Chiropractic Tips for Avoiding Back Pain While Raking

By Brandi Swieter

Raking leaves is a common fall time activity that needs to get done regularly. Although this is true, many people are raking their leaves all wrong, making a visit to the chiropractor necessary to adjust the spine and eliminate back pain often felt after cleaning up the yard. With a few chiropractic tips, rakers can start avoiding back pain while raking and get the chore done much easier.

Drink Water Throughout

Adequate water intake is important during any activity. The muscles cannot function properly without enough water in the body. Take a break every so often and get a drink so the body can perform at optimal function.

Take Breaks

Don’t just take a second to get a drink and continue on with the raking. It is important to take regular breaks during the process so the body does not get overworked. The more tired a person is while handling a task, the more likely they are to start slouching and getting sloppy in their technique. Doing so can lead to injury.

Use the Right Rake

Not just any rake will do. Some people have gardening tools that are much too long or short for their body types, causing them to bend and strain more than they normally would. The right rake needs to get used while taking care of the leaves in the yard or more pain will be felt throughout the process.

Switch Hands

Never continue to do one task using the same hand and the same repetitive motion. It can lead to aches and a weakened posture that can cause injury. It is best to switch hands while raking, spending a few minutes on each side of the body so both get worked and neither gets overworked. It prevents muscle exhaustion.

Wear Supportive Shoes

Just as choosing the right rake makes a difference in the process, so does choosing the right shoes. Individuals need supportive soles that are skid-resistant so they can keep their balance on any surface. They should also have proper arch support so extra strain does not get placed on the body, which can cause further pain. Standing for hours while raking an entire yard of leaves can lead to aches in not only the back, but also the feet and legs. Good shoes will help prevent these aches from developing.

As soon as people start experiencing back pain after time spent raking, a visit to the chiropractor may be warranted. Visit The Joint Chiropractic during its extended hours to get an assessment and see where the pain starts. A spine adjustment can eliminate subluxations and leave people feeling pain-free and ready to take on their raking duties again.

To learn more about your health and wellness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Portland, Ore.