Seattle Chiropractor Discusses Tips for Saving Your Back While Raking Leaves

Hi, it’s Dr. Zapata with Emerald City Spinal Care in Seattle! There is no denying that fall is here in Seattle.  The leaves are changing color, and for some of us, that means an influx of yard work. So, with that in mind, what I’m going to do today is to share a few quick tips on how you can save your back while you are raking up leaves!

Tip number one is to do a “pre-rake warm up”. Walk around to start getting the blood flowing in your body. Do some stretches so that there is less strain on muscles in your neck, shoulders and back. Here are a few stretches you can do:

• Side Bends
• Knee to Chest Lifts

Stretches such as these will help open your body up and get your body ready for all the raking, bending and lifting that you will be doing.

Tip number two is to practice proper raking posture. You will want to make sure that your back is straight and you are using your shoulder muscles. Top Seattle chiropractor also advises that you want to hold the rake close to your upper body with one hand lower down on the rake in order to help give you better leverage. Lastly, try to ensure that you are not twisting your upper body as you are raking.

The third and final tip is to take frequent breaks. The repetitiveness of raking can become painful after a while. So, try to take a break every 15 minutes are so. Sip on water to stay hydrated, and do a little bit more stretching to help release any tension that you may have built up in your body.

That wraps up this tip of the week! For everyone at Emerald City Spinal Care in Seattle, thanks and have an amazing week!

- Dr. Zapata and the Emerald City Spinal Care Team