Autumn in Mill Creek is a lovely time of the year. However, it’s also a time for raking leaves, which is an activity that can be punishing on the back and legs. You can help avoid problems such as back pain, hip, knee and joint pain by taking precautions to protect your body when raking. You can help avoid these problems by using the correct technique, with smart stretches and exercises and also seeking treatment from a chiropractor.

Warm Up

You will help your muscles to warm up and help to avoid injury by performing light stretches and exercises before you start any outside work. First get your blood flowing to your limbs with a brisk walk. Follow with hamstring stretches. Place your heel on a stair in front of you, with your hands on your hips slowly bend forward at the hip until you feel the muscles on your calves pulling.

Next, lay down on your back with your knees bent and your feet flat on the floor. Pull one knee forward so you feel your thighs stretch. Relax that leg and repeat the exercise with the other leg. These stretches need to be repeated several times before using a rake.

Avoid Twisting Dangerously

You may cause painful injuries by twisting your body when lifting heavy objects or performing strenuous activities. Avoid twisting at the hips or legs and always keep in mind that you should turn your body in the direction that you need to face.

Bend Your Knees

Keep your back straight and bend your knees when lifting anything heavy. To prevent strain on your back and arms try to lift items as close to your body as you can. Have someone help you to lift very heavy loads.

Do Not Overwork Your Body

There is no hard and fast rule that says you have to finish your lawn work in a single day. To avoid overworking your body and muscles space your lawn maintenance over the course of a few days. You will be less likely to incur any injuries.

Seek Chiropractic Help This Autumn

At Innovative Chiropractic in Mill Creek, our patients are helped to recover from many aches and pains resulting from outdoor activities in the autumn. Natural techniques are used to restore blood flow to injured areas, reducing stiffness in muscles and helping you recover quickly. Contact us today for an appointment and we will help you to avoid muscle pain and stay active so that throughout the fall you can continue to work in your yard.