In addition to being emotionally taxing, the holiday season can also take a physical toll. Our annual rituals such as shopping ’til you drop’ and lifting presents and heavy boxes can contribute to neck, shoulder, and back injuries.
As physical therapist, we recommend taking precautions, from maintaining your balance by distributing the weight of shopping bags equally on both sides of your body to lifting boxes by using the legs instead of the back, in order to keep aches or even injuries from putting a damper on the holiday spirit.
We suggest taking the proper precautions to avoid ruining a festive season. “Proper body mechanics can help prevent muscle and joint discomfort, ” says Jeff Samyn, PT.
Lifting
- Test an object’s weight before you lift it by pushing it with your foot.
- When you lift, keep feet shoulder-width apart and bend your knees.
- When you lift, keep feet shoulder-width apart and bend your knees. Lift with your legs, not with your back. Stand close to the object, bend your legs, keep your back straight, and lift.
- If a back injury does occur, seek professional consultation from a physical therapist. What starts as a minor problem can become a recurrent problem without early intervention.
Shopping Without Dropping
- Distribute the weight of shopping bags equally on both sides of your body.
- Consider using a fanny-pack or small backpack.
- Wear comfortable shoes; carrying packages while wearing high heels on hard surfaces can contribute to foot and ankle injuries.
- Don’t lug overstuffed shopping bags for extended periods.
Don’t let holiday hustle and bustle leave you sidelined with pain or injury. If you start to feel discomfort in your back, neck, or shoulders, early attention can make all the difference. Our team of physical therapists is here to help you move comfortably through the season and beyond. Schedule your free physical therapy consultation today and give yourself the gift of a healthy, pain-free holiday.
