Welcome a CLEANER HOME and a HEALTHIER YOU this Spring!

Feeling motivated? Spring cleaning is here! Time to clean out and organize those closets, cabinets, and garages. But how do you tackle your list without aches, pains or pulled muscles? Let’s discuss some general tips to keeping your muscles and joints safe while cleaning this spring season!

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  1. Have a game plan. The list for spring cleaning may be long. Tackling projects all day, especially a specific task repeatedly is a way to create aches and pains especially if you’re not used to doing the chores. Look at your list and divide up your big tasks into smaller ones. Also work smarter not harder. Be strategic and have all your supplies and tools ready and available by the project at hand to avoid getting up and down from the ground, up and down the stairs or running back and forth in the house.
  2. Schedule your day. If you know when your joint pain is worse, don’t plan to clean at that time. Don’t set yourself up for failure and end your day in awful pain.
  3. Warm up your body. I know you’re not preparing yourself for the big game but repetitive movement and stress at any level, can cause injury and pain. Before starting try a few arm reaches, trunk twists, and bends.
  4. Use proper lifting mechanics. Don’t forget to bend your knees, feet shoulder width apart, and keep items close to body when lifting or carrying.
  5. Pick tools that help you complete the job. If possible, use a swifter or mop with long handles instead of getting on your hands and knees to clean your floors. Robotic vacuums or cordless vacuums are lighter and easier to move around. This may be a great substitute for heavier vacuums that can cause people to have back pain from pushing and Also, when cleaning above your head, such as ceiling fan, vents and windows be sure to use a proper step ladder to reach those spots. You also may want to use wipes rather than spray bottles to spare your hands.

You may also have questions about everyday chores as well. Here are solutions also recommended by the arthritis foundation on staying safe and reducing aches and pains.

Mopping; sweeping; vacuuming; moving objects:

    1. Push objects; don’t pull.
    2. Walk with mop, broom or vacuum with arms in relaxed position instead of out stretching or leaning at your back.
    3. When mopping, often change mopping styles or directions.
    4. Avoid stressing wrists by keeping them straight, not bent, when holding handles.

Washing floors; cleaning low cabinets; scrubbing tubs and showers:

    1. Kneel on one knee and switch knees often to minimize and disperse pressure instead of kneeling on both knees.
    2. Wear knee pads or cushion knees with a mat.

Unloading washer, dryer and dishwasher; gathering and picking up items:

    1. Bend with your knees, not your back.
    2. When unloading, use a “golfer’s lift.” Simply kick back the leg opposite your extended arm.

    At PRO Physical Therapy we want you to be able to complete every task safely. We want to encourage everyone to keep MOVING and be SAFE. Our occupational and physical therapists are here to answer questions about any task you need to complete during the year. Please contact us at our Murray or Draffenville Kentucky locations to increase your mobility, strength, balance or just learn how tasks can be changed for you to get a job done. Schedule your appointment today!

    Stay fit, motivated, and challenged!   

     
    Scan our QR Code with your phone to visit PRO Physical Therapy Website!

    You can also click on our website link:  https://prophysicaltherapyservices.com

    270-252-7600

    302 US HWY 68 West

    Benton KY 42082 

    Schedule Your Consultation at PRO Physical Therapy

    Are you ready to end your muscle or joint pain? PRO Physical Therapy can help you get started today. To find out more about direct access and our physical therapy services in Marshall County, Kentucky, call 270-252-7600 and schedule an initial evaluation and our experienced insurance can verify your insurance coverage.

    Stay fit, motivated, and challenged!   

     
    Scan our QR Code with your phone to visit PRO Physical Therapy Website!

    You can also click on our website link:  https://prophysicaltherapyservices.com

    270-252-7600

    302 US HWY 68 West

    Benton KY 42082 

    Schedule Your Consultation at PRO Physical Therapy

    Are you ready to end your muscle or joint pain? PRO Physical Therapy can help you get started today. To find out more about direct access and our physical therapy services in Marshall County, Kentucky, call 270-252-7600 and schedule an initial evaluation and our experienced insurance can verify your insurance coverage.