Household chores are such a basic part of everyday life that it’s easy to switch into autopilot mode to get them done. The trouble is, if you’re thinking about the cup of tea you’re going to enjoy afterwards, or if you’re rushing to finish a task, you might not be thinking about protecting your back.
Back issues don’t always occur when lifting heavy weights at the gym or attempting other highly strenuous tasks – sometimes they can strike at home when carrying out simple chores. Here are five everyday household chores that might lead to back pain, and steps you can take to minimise your risk.
Gardening can be immensely enjoyable, and there’s nothing like watching flowers bloom and veggies grow as a result of your efforts. However, all that bending over can strain the back, so remember to take good care.
The act of reaching down, pushing and pulling with your arms, and twisting and moving is the perfect recipe for back pain. But, you don’t need to live with dirty floors – just spend some time perfecting your vacuuming technique.
Making a bed involves a lot of bending over, tugging and pulling sheets into place, and tucking doonas under at the edges. Much like other chores, the more pressure you can take off your back, the better.
Will the piles of laundry ever end?
No matter how large and daunting that laundry pile looks, the most important thing to remember is to protect your wellbeing – it’s not worth shaving a little time off your chores if it means a week of bed rest to recover!
From carrying a heavy bucket of water to reaching and twisting as you scrub lower areas of the car, there are certainly risks for your back. The same tips apply:
If you regularly experience back pain when doing chores, you might benefit from visiting a physio or chiropractor for advice, strengthening exercises, and treatment. Muscle rubs or an over-the-counter pain relief medication could also help alleviate the discomfort.
Disclamer: This content is for informational purposes only and should not substitute advice from your healthcare professional. If symptoms persist or you require specialist advice, please consult your healthcare professional.
