As the crisp autumn air settles in O’Fallon, the fall harvest season brings plenty of outdoor activities and tasks. The physical demands of this busy season can take a toll on your body. Whether you’re raking leaves, picking pumpkins, or tending to your garden, prioritizing your back health is crucial. Here are some expert tips to help you stay pain-free during your fall preparations.
Lift Smart, Stay Strong and Healthy
Proper technique is key when it comes to heavy lifting. Remember to bend at your knees, not your waist, and keep the object close to your body. Avoid twisting while lifting, and use your leg muscles to power the lift. These simple steps help significantly reduce the risk of back strain when handling pumpkins, bags of leaves, or other heavy autumn loads.
Stretching for Best Results
Before diving into fall yard work, take a few minutes to warm up your muscles. A quick 15-minute stretching routine can make a world of difference. Focus on gentle back extensions, hamstring stretches, shoulder rolls, and neck rotations. This pre-work warm-up will improve your flexibility and prepare your body for the tasks ahead.
Ergonomic Gardening Tips
Long hours in the garden can take a toll on your spine. To maintain good posture, use tools with extended handles to reduce bending. Take frequent breaks and change positions often. Consider using a kneeling pad or garden stool and alternate tasks to avoid repetitive strain. By implementing these ergonomic practices, you will enjoy gardening without any backache.
Start Your Day Right
Dr. Agan says, ” You start up your car on cold days to make sure it’s warmed up and ready; your body’s the same way. So, 15 to 30 minutes of movement before you start your day is going to prevent stuff from happening. When you can circulate the blood, get the muscles going, and kind of prepare your day, it makes a difference.”
Get Ready; Schedule Your Check-up Today
Don’t let back pain put a damper on your fall activities. If you’re experiencing discomfort or want to ensure you’re in top shape for the harvest season, schedule a check-up at Agan Chiropractic. Our team is here to help you enjoy a pain-free autumn and align your spine with the changing seasons!