Farming Is Tough, Chiropractic Care Can Help
By Paul Rothbart
Having been born and raised in Brooklyn, I could never be a farmer. Having said that, I have a ton of respect for the profession. I know where my food comes from. Farmers do physical labor, care for plants and animals, and run a business. That's almost superhuman. Long hours, using tools and equipment, not to mention fighting Mother Nature on a daily basis can take quite a toll on a person. I don't know how they do it, but I am certain that farmers take measures to remain physically and mentally fit. Like other stressful jobs, farmers could also benefit from seeing a chiropractor regularly.
Physical Demands
Farming involves waking up extremely early and working long hours. Sleep, when it's available, must be good sleep. Tossing and turning will not provide sufficient rest. Muscles can become sore and stiff from tasks such as planting, raking, and weeding. Hay bales are very heavy and hard to lift and move. There is also risk of injury from walking on the uneven ground of a plowed field, herding and feeding animals, and other agricultural tasks. Farmers work in any kind of weather, which can increase risk of injury. The amount of stress on the back, limbs, and joints, can be considerable. Physical conditioning is vital. Time off the job due to injury is unthinkable. Plants and animals must be cared for daily.
Mental Demands
Farming can be incredibly stressful. Let's not forget, farms are businesses that have to support families. Bad weather, plant and animal diseases, and other natural phenomena are not controllable. Adjusting to changing conditions can cause anxiety and stress. Migraines and stress headaches can result and a bad growing season can produce depression. Farmers love what they do, but it is a tough way to make a living.
How a Chiropractor Can Help
A licensed chiropractor can find subluxations and other problems in the spine and correct them, relieving pain, and preventing them from becoming major injuries. Chiropractic care can also keep the joints flexible and able to perform a full range of motion. Studies have shown that people who see a chiropractor regularly often have fewer migraines and stress headaches. Many patients experience a better quality of sleep, which is vital to both physical and mental health. In the case of an injury, chiropractic care may speed up the recovery process, thus limiting time away from work.
Farming is an important, but demanding job. We need our farmers and they need to stay healthy. If you work in the agricultural industry, consider a visit to The Joint Chiropractic. You don't need an appointment and an exam by a licensed chiropractor may be the first step to regular visits that will help you stay in fit and work at your best.
To learn more about your health, wellness and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Houston, Tex.