Springtime has finally arrived, the birds are singing, the sun is shining, and the grass is getting greener and growing! Time to put that shovel into storage, wipe the dust off of your lawn mower and rake and get your Minnesota yard back in shape.

Although yard work is satisfying when it is all complete, it is hard work and can take a toll on your body. Many homeowners experience back pain, stiffness and pulled muscles when working to perfect their yard.

Below are Tips to Keep You Safe (and Pain Free!) This Spring:

• Warm-up -- Treat yard work like exercising, because it is! Do a quick warm-up by taking a walk and stretching to help prepare your body for constant bending, lifting and other body contortions that yard work requires.
• Wear protective clothing and sunscreen if you will be out for an extended period of time -- Even if it is cloudy outside, the suns’ powerful rays can still penetrate through, causing sunburn. We need some sunshine to generate Vitamin D but be careful not to burn. Also, gear up by wearing protective clothing that can prevent, scratches, cuts and bug bites. Wear shoes that completely cover your feet and avoid wearing baggy clothes that could get caught in motorized lawn equipment.
• Practice proper lifting and kneeling techniques -- Avoid lifting things that are too heavy to handle. When you have to lift, always use your legs to help you lift, not your back. Do not bend over when gardening. Instead, kneel to avoid straining your back and neck.
• Always read instructions and the owner's manual when working and operating dangerous tools and equipment.
• Do not consume alcohol or other controlled substances or medications that can impair judgment or reaction time.
• Keep small children away when operating any dangerous equipment and tools. Even a common lawn mower is dangerous when you go over a rock or acorn that flings out the side at a high speed.
• And remember to take a break! When you get tired, take a breather and rest. Make sure to drink plenty of water while working as well.

Ease Pain with Chiropractic Care

Unfortunately, if you do get sore or injured from working out in the yard, Nokomis chiropractic is here to help. Chiropractic Care has been proven to help prevent and correct pain and symptoms related to yard work.

At Nokomis Chiropractic, we believe that healing begins with the treatment of the entire body. By combining chiropractic care, physical therapy aspects and massage therapy, we can help relieve your pain and symptoms related to yard work.

If you have any questions about Chiropractic care and how it can help you stay pain-free during spring, call Nokomis Chiropractic and Wellnesstoday at 612-822-0149!