Newsletter #20 – Household Tips

The home can be a place that can both cause and aggrivate injury. Whether its ironing or simple kitchen chores, there are solutions that can help to prevent damage to your body. The following tips can be implemented into any household chores that need to be done.

• When boiling the kettle only fill it with as much water as needed so its not too heavy.
• When draining pasta or vegetables don’t lift the saucepan from the stove to the sink with one hand, instead place a wooden board next to the cook top, place the saucepan on the board and slide it across to the sink.
• When ironing either lower the board so that you can sit or move your weight from one side to the other instead of rotating from side to side.
• If the clothes line is a distance away from the washing machine, use a trolley to carry the laundry instead of putting it under one arm. Also lower the line as much as possible to avoid reaching when hanging the washing out and taking it off.
• When vacuuming, either use an upright vacuum cleaner or place the hose behind you and support the hose in your left hand while using your right hand to operate the vacuum head – this will stop you from bending too far forward.
• Don’t sit for too long in one position when watching tv or sitting at the computer – try to change your posture frequently or getting up every 30 mins to have a stretch.
• When pealing vegetables try and sit at the kitchen bench to give your back and legs a rest.

If you are having further troubles with your injuries our physio’s at both our Caloundra and Landsborough Practices are here to help you.