Avoiding DIY injury!

D.I.Y. Don't Injure Yourself! The nation’s DIYers will be coming out of the woodwork for the summer holidays as the DIY season sets in, and Dr James Revell warns that care should be taken before everyone rushes off to get to grips with those home improvement jobs they have been putting off. In an attempt to reduce injury, Lushington Chiropractic has identified the top three home improvement tasks which can lead to DIY disaster:

• painting and decorating
• pruning and patios
• moving and lifting

So, Wellbeing readers take heed, if you are planning a new patio or a splash of colour on the walls, Dr Revell has this advice for you:

• Reach for the sky - if you are planning on painting a ceiling think about getting the largest amount of paint on in the shortest space of time
• Use a paint pad or roller with an extended handle and hold it at chest height. Keep your head as neutral as possible and facing forward
• Don’t twist - use a ladder - always face it and move the ladder regularly. Always keep your shoulders, hips and knees pointing in the same direction
• If you are pruning use long handled secateurs and get as close to the plants as you can, and a top tip is to prune before you plant!
• If laying a patio keep the slab close to your body and bend your knees
• Vary your activity - spend no more than 20-30 minutes on any one thing and take breaks
• Pain is a warning sign do not ignore it - if you start to ache then stop what you are doing.

For more information call 01323 722499 Lushington Chiropractic chirocare.co.uk