Listen to Your Chiropractor When Cleaning House
By Paul Rothbart
Unless you have a maid or don't mind living in a dirty home, housework is a fact of life. It involves a variety of tasks that require lifting, bending, pushing, pulling, scrubbing. It can be quite a workout. It can also put a lot of stress on the back and joints if not done correctly. There is more to proper housework technique than just leaving things spotless. Like any other physical activity, pain and damage can be avoided by being mindful of the body while engaged in it. Your chiropractors at the local The Joint Chiropractic are always there for you, but meet them halfway. Follow these chiropractic tips for doing household chores.
Lift Properly
Buckets of water, baskets of laundry, and even bottles and boxes of cleaning products can be heavy. This can put a lot of strain on the back, so lift them correctly. Never bend from the back, always lift with the legs, keeping the back straight. Grip the object being lifted firmly and hold it close to the body, straighten the knees and stand. When turning, don't twist the torso, this can also strain the back. Turn your entire body using your legs. Walk slowly and carefully when moving a heavy object. Be aware of furniture and other things that you may bump into and avoid them.
Vacuum Correctly
This may seem odd. How hard is it to run a vacuum cleaner? Not hard at all, but doing it ergonomically will save a lot of stress and strain on the back. Stand up straight, with solid posture. Rather than bending and pushing the vacuum out, walk behind it, using your legs to propel it. Be careful when bending to remove a full bag. Again, legs, not back.
Reposition
Some chores, like washing dishes, cooking, or prep work require standing in one place for a period of time. This can also place stress on joints. Shift position from time to time. Change which leg bears more weight and turn slightly from one side to another periodically. You can also change the width of your legs. By not remaining static, the strain on the joints will be reduced.
Stand On One Leg
You can actually build strength when doing a standing chore like the dishes. Make like a stork and stand on one leg at a time for brief periods. Hold on to the sink for support if necessary. This will not only strengthen the legs, but also the abdomen and low back.
The daily household chores are not going away. But by using proper techniques, stress, strain, and injury to the back other joints can be avoided. So listen to your chiropractor and pop in to your local The Joint Chiropractic from time to time for an adjustment.
To learn more about your health, wellness and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Houston, Tex.