It's SPRING, and I am sure many of you are starting to think about spring cleaning. Physician Assistant Rebecca Pelkola shares some tips to protect your back while you freshen up your home!
1. Take your time. Pushing yourself and moving quickly puts you at risk.
2. Perform good body mechanics while mopping, sweeping, vacuuming, reaching, lifting and carrying.
- Keep good posture by holding your back in a neutral/straight position without sticking your tailbone out.
-Before lifting objects, test their weight. If the object is too heavy, get help or ask someone to lift the object for you. Stand with your feet shoulder width apart. Tighten your stomach muscles while lifting objects. Bend from the hips and knees, keeping your feet on the floor.
-While carrying items, keep them close to your body and avoid twisting your spine. Tighten your stomach muscles slightly. Make sure your path is clear of obstacles.
-If overhead reaching, use a step ladder or stool to get as close to the object as possible. Do not use ladders if you have balance issues, instead ask for help.
-For vacuuming, sweeping and mopping activities, remember to move your body with the vacuum, broom or mop. Keep it close to you. Use your legs and arms keeping your back in a natural position and a slight tightness of the stomach muscles.
Click here to learn more about Rebecca Pelkola, PA-C