We’re not sure exactly what it is about spring that makes us all want to clear the clutter and wipe the dust away, but the call is strong. There’s just something about a freshened up home that can work wonders in more ways than just hygiene – it seems to lighten the mood and atmosphere of the whole place.
Yet, just as the rates of cleanliness increase during the spring months, there’s an influx of patients with injuries from spring cleaning-related activities. Patients tend to come in with pain symptoms in the back, neck or shoulders and often sustain the injuries from a fall.
While it’s great to keep your annual spring cleaning traditions, it’s also important to instill safety precautions so that everyone can finish their tasks without a slipped disc or broken bone. In the event that an injury does occur, keep in mind that your local injury care team at Sea Change Chiropractic is here to help.
As the flowers bloom and the birds’ chirp, get ready for a safe and productive season of cleaning the house by avoiding these three common injuries:
Back Injuries
Cleaning can get repetitive. Dusting each blind, sweeping the floor, and bringing boxes out of storage can use the same muscle groups and joints again and again. You may be fine for the first ten lifts, twists, or bends and assume you can handle the whole task. Yet, it’s after the 500th repetition where the trouble can start. If you’re not in shape or going into the work well-stretched, the risk of injury increases.
Shoulder Injuries
Pulling weeds or any other tasks that require yanking motions after a while can lead to a sensation of burning or straining in the shoulders. Sound familiar? That’s your body giving you a sign to stop or slow down. Instead of pushing through to get things done, take time to slow down so you don’t put your shoulders through something they can’t handle.
Falls
Working on uneven ground? Climbing a ladder to reach those gutters? Working on an unbalanced or elevated surface to clean the nooks and crannies puts you at a greater risk of falling, which can cause serious injury. Always keep a spotter nearby if you’re on a ladder or a step stool, and take breaks when you need it. If the task itself makes you worried about a fall, remember that you can always hire a professional.
Tips to Avoid Spring Cleaning Injuries
Before you get started with your long list of cleaning tasks, prep yourself for a safe process by walking through the below tips.
- Warm up beforehand with light stretching.
- Take regular breaks within long tasks.
- Don’t take on tasks that strain any areas where you have pre-existing issues.
- Ask for help and don’t feel like you have to do absolutely everything yourself.
- Lift with proper form so as to not strain the back.
- Don’t ignore any signs of pain or injury.
Chiropractic Care for Spring Cleaning Injuries
Spring has sprung and the cleaning begins. If you or your loved one gets injured while contributing to your household spring cleaning efforts, it’s important to seek medical treatment as soon as possible.
Don’t let an injury go undiagnosed or treated. The chiropractors at Sea Change Wellness are here to help. Contact us today at (727) 521-4244 or send a message online to schedule your appointment.
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