Online Help - March 2007
Spring Fever
Spring has arrived, and the gorgeous weather makes you want to shake off the winter blues and have a good old clear out – in the house, garden and even within yourself!
Needless to say, this is a busy time of year for osteopaths too, as people start getting more active. But you can prevent injury by following a few simple guidelines.
Gardening
The key here is little and often – especially with digging! Take regular breaks or spread the task out over a few days. Avoid lifting large spadefulls of earth, and remember to bend your knees when lifting the spade. Move your feet around too to avoid twisting the low back – the bend + twist movement is really dangerous for vulnerable low backs.
Spring cleaning / housework
Again, don’t try and do too much all at once, especially of the same type of activity – e.g. hoovering. Different tasks require use of different areas of the body – cleaning windows is heavy on the neck, arms and shoulders, whereas cleaning low-level cupboards is harder on the knees and low back.
Ironing boards should be set high enough that you are not leaning over it – the elbow of the ironing hand should be bent at 45º. Hoovering is a real bug bear – very few hoovers are comfortable and light enough to use in all areas of the house. So again the key is to do a little at a time, get help with hoovering the stairs and don’t do the whole house in one go if you can avoid it!
Personal spring-cleaning!Spring is a time associated with growth and new ventures. It can be a time of inspiration and change.
Osteopathy is a holistic system of healthcare, which means it considers the role of emotional, environmental and spiritual factors is a persons health status and ability to heal themselves. In practical terms, this means how many sessions it will take to get better. All forms of exercise can induce a sense of well-being, but not all types suit all people.
Yoga, meditation and pilates are considered holistic forms of exercise as they include emphasis on emotional well-being. However, a good brisk walk along the river bank on a clear spring day can give the same feel-good factor!
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