Tips for Safely Doing Outside Chores
By Paul Rothbart
People want to be proud of their homes and be cozy and comfortable in them. For the interior, decorating and cleaning will keep it nice. The outdoor portion of a home is just as important. Front and back yards and gardens need planting, mowing, watering, and trimming. There may be walkways that need work. Snow removal may be an important task in the winter. All of these are physical labor that can take a toll on you. There is also the weather to consider. Here are some tips for doing those outdoor chores safely.
Handle Physicality Well
Outdoor work often involves bending, kneeling, and heavy lifting. Done improperly, any of these activities could hurt your back, neck, or joints. Before engaging in physical labor, take the time to stretch and work up, just as you would before working out. This will prepare your muscles for work and can help prevent strains, pulls, and tears. When doing any kind of lifting, may sure you do it properly. Never lift with your back, always use the much stronger legs. Keep your back straight and never twist at the waist while carrying a load. Always turn your entire body.
Use Protective Gear
Gloves are a must for outdoor work. They protect you from cuts and scrapes that can come from thorns, ragged edges of wood or metal, or any kind of sharp surface. They also help you keep a solid grip on tools that can help prevent injury. Wear eye protection when using a lawnmower, weed whacker, or snow blower. Any of these machines can blow debris up into your eyes with enough to hurt them badly. Protective gear includes wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect yourself on those bright sunny days. The latter two should also be used in winter. If the weather is cold, make sure you are bundled up well enough to keep warm. It's also important to hydrate.
See a Chiropractor
Another great way to keep outdoor work safe is to see a chiropractor. If you do have any subluxations or other problems in your spine and joints from chores or if they were there before, a chiropractor will find them. They can then be fixed with adjustments which can relieve any pain you may be feeling and get you ready for your next session of work. Chiropractors can also offer other tips and advice on stretching and getting your work done without injury.
Working on the outdoor parts of your property can be rewarding and help your home with curb appeal. It is important to do it safely to avoid injury. Follow these tips and consider a visit to The Joint Chiropractic. You don't need an appointment. Regular treatments may help you with indoor as well as outdoor chores.
To learn more about your health, wellness and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Katy, Tex.