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The state-of-the-art equipment available today for lawn and leaf management can help turn the average homeowner into a lawn specialist overnight. But the use of weed trimmers, leaf blowers and hedge clippers has also been sending many aspiring landscapers to their chiropractic doctor.
The American Chiropractic Association (ACA) warns that using such equipment can result in back and neck pain, as well as more serious muscular strains and tears if not used properly.
"The repetitive motion that your body undergoes when using such equipment can bring on a whole host of mechanical problems within the body," says ACA President Dr. Richard Brassard. "It is essential to operate your equipment properly. If you do not, the pounding your body endures may be multiplied."
Tips for Safely Using Outdoor Equipment
Dr. Brassard offers the following tips to help you safely enjoy a productive day in the yard:
- Regardless of what piece of equipment you are using, make sure it has a strap-and that you use it. Place the strap over your head on the shoulder on the opposite side of your body from the device. This will help normalize your center of gravity.
- Be sure to switch the side on which you are operating the equipment as often as possible, and to balance the muscles being used, alternate your stance and motion frequently.
- Take frequent breaks from the activity of the day. Muscle fatigue may be felt when using any of these devices for an extended period of time.
- Consider electric-powered items, especially if you experience back or neck pain, as they tend to be much lighter than their engine-powered counterparts.
- When picking up or putting down your equipment, be sure to bend from the knees, not at the waist. Keep the object close to your body as you lift, not at arm's length.
- "While it is critical to operate yard equipment safely, it is equally important that you prepare your body for the work you are about to do," explains Dr. Brassard. "Be sure to include a warm-up/cool-down period to help avoid injury."
Chiropractic Care Can Help
If you experience pain or discomfort resulting from outdoor equipment misuse, call your chiropractor. Doctors of chiropractic are trained and licensed to treat the entire neuromusculoskeletal system, and can help people lead healthier lives by focusing on wellness and prevention.
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