Fall is a prime time to ready your yard and garden for the dormancy of winter. From raking leaves to weeding and reapplying mulch, you’ve many tasks to undertake. If you aren't careful, however, the lifting, crouching, and stooping may leave you with back pain. Avoid yardwork injuries by taking these three precautions.

3 Precautions to Prevent Yardwork Back Pain

1. Warm Up First

A strenuous round of raking leaves may leave you sweaty, breathless, and achy. As with any workout, you should warm up your muscles before you start. Failing to do so may cause the muscles in your back to overextend and result in a strain. Stretch by interlacing your fingers and raising your hands above your head with the palms up. The Mayo Clinic has additional suggestions for back stretches and exercises you can do to warm up.

2. Learn to Lift the Right Way

Whether you’re lugging a heavy potted plant or transporting bags of mulch, pay attention to how you lift. Improper technique can strain muscles, resulting in stiffness, back pain, and muscle spasms. To do it right, squat and engage your leg muscles as you rise, holding bags, bundles, or bales close against your body.

3. Choose Back-Friendly Equipment & Tools

Even if the day is warm and sunny, opt for closed-toe shoes that amply support your arches. Footwear places added stress on the spine and may cause back pain if it doesn't aid balance and stability. When choosing gardening tools, opt for electric instead of manual equipment. Electric tools are lighter, less bulky, and easier to handle.

If you find yourself experiencing back pain after completing fall yardwork, see a chiropractor for quick relief. Midway Pointe Chiropractic of Elyria, OH, provides trusted care backed by 20 years of experience. They’re confident in their abilities to relieve discomfort and offer a 100% money-back guarantee if you aren't satisfied. Find out more about their credentials online. For an appointment, call (440) 324-2040.