Spring-cleaning can be a pain, but pain doesn’t necessarily have to be a part of your routine. Spring has sprung up quite quickly this season, and before we know it summer will be in full effect. Putting off cleaning responsibilities will only increase your risk of enduring back pain. Don’t try and do too much, too quickly. Instead, spread your work over a week’s or month’s period, and practice safe cleaning!
At Southwest Spine and Pain Center, we are encouraged to help patients live normal lives. While cleaning may not be what most patients imagined they would need help with, these tips will help you feel less cluttered, less stressed, and more ready for summertime fun!
The following tips are explained that will help patients get their jobs done while avoiding injury and back pain. Southwest Spine and Pain Center is a national leader in pain management, and continues to serve patients in Utah and surrounding southwest cities.
Set realistic goals. You likely have enough to worry about in your life other than spring cleaning. Don’t put pressure or stress on your already loaded schedule. Plan a schedule over the next several days or couple of weekends to give your body ample rest in between cleanings.
Check equipment. Ensure that you have all your equipment beforehand: ladders, stools, scaffolding, cleaning supplies, etc. Make a checklist!
Be safe. Clear out all areas that you will be working in to avoid injury. Make sure that the floors are clean and dry. Ask your family members or friends if you need help. Don’t overwhelm yourself and be sure to ask for help when needed.
Use proper techniques. This is possibly the most important tip, as it will surely reduce your risk of back pain during this time.
- Lifting and carrying. Always bend at the knees and lift with your arms and legs; not your back! Don’t carry too much at one time. Take several trips if you need to.
- Vacuuming. Vacuuming can require a lot of twisting and turning that compresses the spine and neck. Push the vacuum with both hands, relieving pressure on your spine.
- Windows. Avoid stretching to high areas. Use a step stool to clean hard to reach places and try not to tilt your head too far back.
- Mopping. Use a broom with a long handle, if you can. Scrubbing on your hands and knees will put immense pressure to those areas. Wash small areas of the floor, walking forward and backward with the broom as to not overstretch your back.
Talk to you Southwest Spine and Pain Center physician about other ways you can relieve back pain at home. Contact Southwest Spine and Pain about treatment options that suit your pain condition.
If chronic pain is impacting your life, don't wait to schedule an appointment at Southwest Spine and Pain Center. With three locations and growing, the pain management specialists at Southwest Spine and Pain Center are dedicated to helping those who suffer from chronic pain live the life they want to! To schedule an appointment, visit our locations tab!
The advice and information contained in this article is for educational purposes only, and is not intended to replace or counter a physician’s advice or judgment. Please always consult your physician before taking any advice learned here or in any other educational medical material.
©Southwest Spine and Pain Center, 2014
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