Chiropractic & Spring Cleaning

Spring is officially here! Which means that cleaning is on everyone’s mind. Having a big clear out and starting fresh ready for a summer in the garden.. we hope!

However, let’s not pretend that we all find it enjoyable. A big spring clean and clear out can be a lot of work and can be painful for your body is you are unprepared. 

Whether it be vacuuming, mopping, making beds or ironing. The main cause of this discomfort is often bad posture. The following information is designed to educate you on how to manoeuvre yourself when you are doing various cleaning tasks to prevent you developing pain. 

Let’s be honest, cleaning is not always fun, especially when you have an injury or in chronic pain. The good news is that there are a few simple things you can do to make cleaning a little less painful, literally and figuratively. 

Think like an athlete

If you know you have a lot of chores to do, think like an athlete; warm up and stretch before you start. 

Think before you lift

It is important to remember to lift with your legs, not our back or arms. Be sure to bend your knees and lift heavy items, like a full laundry basket, carefully. 

Choose the right tools

Find a lightweight vacuum or a broom with an extra long handle. These simple changes will make cleaning much easier on your lower back and can help prevent pain. 

When ironing try not to stand in the same position for too long because this increases the pressure on the back and joints. It can also cause prolonged stress on the shoulders. 

Proper Posture

As you clean, it is important to remember to maintain proper posture. Avoid slouching when you was dishes or vacuum and try not to bend over for long periods cleaning items low to the floor. 

Work Forward

Keep our shoulders and your hips facing forward toward your work. Don’t pull, twist, bend, push or pull sideways as that can lead to pain or injury. 

Make a cleaning schedule

Make a daily cleaning schedule so that you spend a little time each day cleaning rather than doing the work in one afternoon.