Protect Your Back While Doing Yard Work!

By Donna Stark

There are some people who simply can't wait to get their hands into the mulch that's around their house and there are others who will do as much as they can to avoid touching it. It doesn't really matter though if you love it or hate it because yard work in the summertime isn't going away anytime soon and that means your back pain isn't going away either. That's why your local chiropractors at The Joint Chiropractic have decided to share their favorite tips on how to keep your back feeling good throughout the summer months. Take a look.

Warm Up

You don't skip your warm-ups before your work out at the gym, so don't make it a habit of skipping them with this! Taking care of your yard is hard work so make sure your body is prepared for it! Before you start, fire up your muscles and engage your joints with some light stretches and exercises.

Wear Appropriate Shoes

It matters what you put on your feet. In addition to supporting and carrying all your body's weight, your feet may be carrying heavy loads of yard debris too. It's important to choose supportive, closed-toe shoes to reduce the risk of back pain, falls, and injuries.

Be Mindful of Your Back

Incorrect lifting techniques can lead to a world of problems, including stressed and strained back muscles. Before you lift any heavy items, make sure your feet are planted on the ground and your body is centered in front of it. Bend at your knees to reduce the stress on your back and hold the item close to your body during the lift. Engage your leg and arm muscles too! Don't leave all the work for your back.

Buy Some Tools

Work smarter, not harder! If you are struggling with pain, it may be time to invest in some new and improved gardening equipment. Old or non-electrical equipment can cause muscle tension, stiffness, and back spasms over time, so go ahead and sell the push mower at your next garage sale. Get that riding mower you have had your eyes on and use wheelbarrows or tractors to move heavy items.

Visit Your Chiropractor

Routine chiropractic care can help you avoid back pain too! When your spine is out of alignment, the risk of joint dysfunction and back pain increases significantly. Chiropractic care helps to ease muscle tension, remove joint dysfunction, and reduce pain so you can work in your yard (and in your home) pain-free! So, come on in to The Joint Chiropractic today and see how easy it is to get your yard and your back looking and feeling their best yet!

To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Vancouver, Wash.