Fall Yard Work

At the Central Virginia Chiropractic Center in Lynchburg, we commonly see patients who have been injured while doing yard work. Because we highly value prevention, this fall, we want to make sure everybody understands what they need to do to avoid pulling a back muscle or wearing out a shoulder.

When working outside, wear clothing that is form-fitting and warm, but made of breathable materials. Discard dangling jewelry, but wear gloves, long sleeves, and slip-resistant closed shoes or boots. Warm up using dynamic stretches and remember our advice to lift with your legs, not your back. Do a cool-down when you’re done working.

The American Chiropractic Association has some particular advice for raking. Stand next to the pile, and regularly alternate which hand is higher on the rake (this will require you to change which side of the pile you stand on). Stand with your back and neck straight and with your feet in a scissor position, one forward and one back. Alternate which foot is which every few minutes. Be careful to avoid putting too many leaves in the bag. Test it before moving it, and if it’s too heavy, transfer some leaves to a different bag.

Dr. Darlene Holland operates Central Virginia Chiropractic Center, Inc. at 7327 Timberlake Rd, Lynchburg, Virginia, 24502. To schedule an appointment, visit CentralVAChiro.com or call 434-237-0413.