Don’t let Spring Fever Lead to Spring Injury!

As Easter draws nearer and the days grow longer, it is the time to reach for the Washing up Gloves and the antibacterial spray! At this time of year many of us decide, for some unknown reason, to spring clean the house from top to bottom. Every nook and cranny receives a cleaning attack.

Before you start, spare a thought for your body which has just spent the winter in hibernation! Avoid the shock to the joints and muscles by pacing your cleaning rather than trying to do it all in one day. Plan to do one room/area at a time and vary your tasks. If you have to bend down try to use your knees or kneel down if possible using a mat or cushion under the knees.

If you have been bending make sure you stand up straight and tall afterwards, place your hands in the small of the back and arch backwards 4 or 5 times as the picture shows.

Avoid straining your neck especially if you need to look upwards, and don’t put your head at an awkward angle e.g. when trying to clean inside low or high cupboards.

When cleaning out the kitchen cupboards take the opportunity to arrange your plates, dishes and pans so that the most used and heavier items are placed at waist height. This will avoid extensive bending and stretching throughout the year.

After finishing a spell of cleaning it is so tempting to slump down on the settee with a well-earned coffee. This is the best way to bring on an attack of low back pain – so sit straight with a cushion in the small of your back, or better still have a short walk or go for a swim. A hot bath or shower before bed will help to soothe any aching muscles and help to prevent stiffness the next morning.

So follow this advice and enjoy freshening up your house without paying the price of pain.