Chiropractic Guidance on Gift Shopping
By Brandi Goodman
You may find yourself at several stores this holiday season as you attempt to shop for gifts. The practice may be common but that doesn't mean it's easy on the body. Shopping can actually cause a lot of tension and create joint restrictions or subluxations if you aren't careful. Consider some chiropractic guidance so you can get your gift shopping done without aches.
Forgo the Purse
Leave the purse at home this season as you attempt to get your shopping done. It's just an extra weight on your shoulder that increases tension. You can bring along your cash or card by keeping it in your jacket pocket. Just be sure to zip it up so nothing falls out. If you still insist on carrying a handbag, then at least switch the side you're carrying it on throughout your trip.
Wear Cushioned Soles
The floor at most stores is either made up of vinyl tile or ceramic. Neither of these is comfortable on your body. You'll most likely develop an ache in your feet, legs, and lower back as you walk because of how hard these floors are. Wear shoes with cushioned soles to help absorb some of the impact. You'll be less likely to feel so sore by the end of your shopping excursion.
Get Help
Never attempt to reach for an item high up on the shelf. There's a possibility it could fall down on you. There's also a possibility you could hurt yourself simply by reaching too far and pulling a muscle. Get help when there's something that's out of your grasp. It's also wise to get help transporting bulky or heavy items from the store to your car.
Break Often
You don't want to continue through the store for hours without ever taking a break. Staying on your feet that long can be detrimental to your joints. Break often if you plan on shopping all day so you can give your body the time it needs to recover. Sit down and have a glass of water. Eat a piece of fruit. Stretch your body. Spend a few minutes in the bathroom. Any sort of break can help give you the push you need to continue and ensure you aren't overdoing it.
Avoid the aches of gift shopping by considering guidance from a chiropractor. A few tips in mind can go a long way toward helping you maintain your physical health. Any shopper who does experience pain after shopping should stop in at one of the more than 500 locations of The Joint Chiropractic for an assessment.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Fort Worth, Tex.