Is Your House Hurting Your Back?
By Sara Butler
There’s a right way and a wrong way to do just about everything. When it comes to back pain, even some of the simplest things around your home could be doing more harm than good. Back pain becomes chronic unless you take steps in your everyday life to avoid it. Here are a few things around your house that may be hurting your back and how you can make them friendlier to your spine.
Your Toilet Paper Holder
This one might sound silly, but it’s true – your toilet paper holder may be hurting your back. Think about it: In what way do you have to reach in order to get your toilet paper? Do you end up resembling an acrobat or a human pretzel in the process? Well, then you’re not doing your spine any favors. And no one wants their back to go into a spasm when they’re in the bathroom. That would be embarrassing.
If your toilet paper hold is far away from the throne, then gather the paper ahead of time. If you forget, keep your abs tight and your spine straight as your reach for it.
Housework
Unless you have a professional cleaning person come into your home (lucky you!), chances are you do the cleaning yourself. Some of the more strenuous jobs, such as tubs or windows, can be really tough on your back. All that reaching, bending, and twisting can lead you straight to an injury – even a serious one such as a herniated disc.
You have to look at your housework as a sport. You need to warm up in order to get your body ready and use the right form when lifting, bending, and reaching. Don’t lift objects that are too heavy by yourself, and if it’s too big, then push it instead of lifting it. Utilize your upper body as well as your lower body during chores too. And for the love of your back, buy some gadgets to make it easier on you. Everyone loves a good gadget!
Hard Surfaces
Hardwood or ceramic floors can be quite beautiful and add a nice ambiance to your home, but they can also make every single step you take stressful on your back. You have to take measurements to cushion your feet. Use rugs in front of places you step a lot, such as in front of the stove, washer and dryer, or sink. This can help your body to be exposed to less shock and stress.
To learn more about your health and wellness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic.