Raking not Back Breaking...

It’s that time of year when the Autumn leaves are falling fast. And whilst they might look beautiful, we are often in a hurry to scoop them up out of the way. 

No problem, but you wouldn’t believe the number of visits I have from patients who have overdone it.

So, what should you do?

Do a few stretching exercises and ensure you are warm before starting any gardening. 

• When raking, take a wide stance – with feet shoulder width apart. Bend the knees and keep your hips and arms soft – not too rigid.

• Be careful when you are putting leaves in the wheelbarrow or bag to bend the knees. If you have a lot of leaves to clear try and do it in smaller stints rather repetitively bending.

• Rather than one or two big bags, opt for smaller bags if taking leaves to the tip – reducing the strain on your back. And remember to bend your knees when lifting too.

• Take care that you are not over stretching when you empty bags at the tip – sometimes the gap over the containers can be quite big.

• After work in the garden stretch out your muscles and treat yourself to a warm bath or shower. 

If you have overdone it, try and do some light stretching a few times a day and see If this will help to settle It down again.

If not, we are always happy for you to book an appointment.