Fall Leaves: Beautiful and Back Breaking
By Virginia Laird
Fall welcomes an array of colors in the way of changing leaves. Many long for the beauty of such change, not to mention the lovely weather that it accompanies. However, there is one slight downfall to this time of year, the falling leaves. When the leaves fall from the trees, the task of raking them can be daunting. This chore can lead to back pain. Alas, there are a few suggestions a person can apply to raking the leaves that can help prevent such pain, including:
- Stretch before raking the leaves
- Take breaks often
- Don’t try to get it all done in one day
- Recruit help
Stretch Before Raking the Leaves
Many people set out to accomplish yard work without considering the hard labor it involves. Chiropractors suggest people should think of yard work much like a workout, recommending people stretch out well before beginning any outdoor tasks.
Take Breaks Often
Another great tip chiropractors recommend is to take breaks often. It can be easy to get lost in the enjoyment of spending time outdoors. However, it is imperative to take breaks. This allows the body to rest, also serving as a reminder to hydrate and to apply sunscreen again.
Don’t Try to Get It All Done in One Day
As much as everyone wants to accomplish the large task of the yard in a few hours, it is more important to protect the body from pain. Many people get busy working in the yard and forget how demanding the task can be on the back. Much of yard work requires a person to bend or lean, putting stress on the spine. Chiropractors suggest taking it slow when working in the yard.
Recruit Help
As much as many people do not like to ask for help, this is one task in which help may be required. Raking the leaves can be a difficult task and require moderate to heavy lifting. As leaves are piled into whatever collecting receptacle used, they get heavy -- especially if they're wet. Trying to do too much alone is certain to cause back pain. Chiropractors suggest to many patients to get help with leaf raking.
If you are someone who struggles to remain pain-free during or after your time in the yard, it is important to take the advice from the spinal care professionals. Chiropractors know best when it comes to protecting the spine and the back. If you already struggle with back pain, visit with your chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in your neighborhood before setting out to accomplish any yard work.
To learn more about your health and wellness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Webster, Tex.
