Janet Bell, Osteopath

Christmas is a stressful time of year.  It is easy to get fatigued and in the Christmas rush forget how to bend and pick up heavy loads safely.

After 17 years as an osteopath and treating patients over the Christmas period, here are a couple of tips to prevent Back Pain this Christmas. There will be more to follow next week.

Balancing the Bags

When carrying heavy bags always try to balance the load.

It is better to put your shopping into several bags rather than one large one, so that they can be carried in either hand.

Even better is to carry less!

Loading and Unloading the Car

Try to keep a straight back and bend your knees rather than your back.

Split your shopping into several bags rather than one heavy box.

If you have a two-door car be very careful when putting bags into the back seat – this goes for babies and young children too. Low backs are particularly vulnerable when bending and twisting at the same time.

More tips to follow next week. In the meantime, don’t let back pain spoil your festivities.