Mowing the Yard and Back Pain
By Virginia Laird
The vast majority of those with yards like to have them lush and green throughout the spring and summer. While this can sound like a great plan, having a beautiful yard comes with consequences. Many report suffering with back pain while trying to beautify the yard. Chiropractors suggest that many of those who drop by during the spring admit to having pain while working in the yard. For this reason, chiropractors have offered a few tips to follow to help prevent such pain, including:
- Stretch before you begin
- Take breaks often
- Lift with your legs
Stretch Before You Begin
Chiropractors suggest that stretching prior to doing yard work, including mowing, can help prevent back pain. It is recommended that you stretch your back, neck and legs to help release tension and ease pain. Stretching can also help you avoid injury while working to beautify your yard. The next time you head out to mow, make sure you stretch out prior to getting started.
Take Breaks Often
Although you may like the idea of getting your yard work accomplished in just a few minutes, the reality is that it takes time. With that knowledge, chiropractors suggest that you plan to take plenty of breaks as you work in your yard. This typically means to allow time to stretch, hydrate, and get off your feet for a few minutes to help prevent and manage back pain. The next time you head out to your yard for some hard work, make sure to add a little extra time to your plan so that you can have time for breaks as you work.
Lift With Your Legs
There are a variety of things you might be required to lift and pull on as you work in your yard and mow. Chiropractors suggest that you lift with your legs to avoid causing harm to your back. Research suggests that lifting with the back can lead to pain and injury, which can be irreparable. If you are unsure how to lift with the legs, keep in mind that lifting with your legs requires you to bend at the knee.
If you are one who struggle with back pain on a regular basis,consider dropping by your chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in your community. There, you will be able to establish a pain prevention and management plan which can keep you on your feet. With no appointment necessary, getting started is as easy as dropping by at your earliest convenience. And with more than 450 locations nationwide, you are sure to find one nearby.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Memphis, Tenn.