Working on a Home Project?

Many of you are stuck at home right now and with that, you have turned to your To Do lists. As you take on your various home projects, here are a few tips to help prevent injuries and keep your joints happy.

1. Lifting technique

When lifting any object, whether it weighs 5 pounds or 50 pounds, it is important to make sure you are lifting with the correct technique in order to avoid injury. Before lifting, make sure your core is engaged. Bend your knees and try to keep your back flat ( don’t bend your back to reach the object). Use your legs to push yourself up to standing. DO NOT lift and twist!

Pro tip: If you can’t lift the correct way, then you should not be lifting at all. Get a friend or family member to help you.

2. Posture while you work

Be conscious of the position you are working in. You can’t always work and hold the perfect posture. If you are working overhead or bent over low to the ground, take a break and change positions every 15-20 minutes. This will help take the strain off your joints when you are working on a large project.

3. Take a break

Don’t forget to take breaks while you work. Keep a water bottle with you and make sure you are drinking throughout the day. It’s easy to get distracted and forget to drink water. It’s also important to make sure you have a healthy snack with you. Healthy foods will keep you going while you are hard at work.