With the arrival of warm weather, spring cleaning season is in full swing. Unfortunately, all the lifting, reaching, and other strenuous activities associated with cleaning can mean trouble for people with back pain. Here are a few tips about how to clean with as little discomfort as possible.

How to Stay Pain-Free During Spring Cleaning

1. Warm Up First

Many people warm up before exercising, but it’s smart to warm up before cleaning, too. Increasing your core temperature before you begin physical activity allows muscles to be stretched easier, which helps prevent strains and injuries. You can raise your body temperature by going for a walk or doing jumping jacks. Then, do stretches like arm and shoulder circles, walking lunges, and toe touches. Try starting with easier tasks, then move to ones that are more physical, like bending, reaching, or lifting.

2. Take Breaks

While cleaning, you need to listen to your body. Even if you’re not in pain, take a few minutes every once in a while to rest. If you start to feel uncomfortable, take a longer break. Sit down or do stretches. If the back pain won’t go away, rest it and try again tomorrow. This is better than pushing through the pain and potentially making your issue significantly worse.

3. Divide Your Chores

It can be tempting to carve out one day for all of your spring cleaning. A better approach is to spend an hour a day doing a few cleaning tasks. This ensures that you don’t overexert yourself and end up in severe pain.

4. Practice Good Posture

There are certain positions that are known to make back pain worse, and it’s easy to fall into them if you’re not careful. For example, it’s difficult to maintain proper posture when vacuuming or mopping, since it’s tempting to bend over. However, this can exacerbate your back pain. Instead, hold the handle of the mop or vacuum close to your body at about the height of your belly button. Then, walk with the tool rather than pushing it forward with your arms. Keep your spine neutral during all activities and avoid bending over and lifting whenever possible.

If your back pain is keeping you from accomplishing your spring cleaning goals, visit the expert chiropractor and staff at Midway Pointe Chiropractic Inc in Elyria, OH. Dr. Schaffer has been serving patients throughout Lorain County for over 20 years and believes that you deserve to live pain-free. He offers a complimentary exam that includes free x-rays, a spinal analysis assessment, and his diagnosis to help you get back on your feet. Visit their website or call (440) 324-2040 to make an appointment for your first complimentary exam.