Spring is finally here. For many people it is time to do a thorough household spring clean inside and out. Although this cleaning is an annual ritual, it also carries some potential health risks due to the change and sudden increase in physical activity.

Weekend sports warriors are not the only ones susceptible to springtime injuries. It is just as easy to overdo it around the house.

Sweeping

Try to avoid twisting your body when you pull a broom toward you. Use your legs to shift your weight forward and back.

Vacuum

Push the vacuum in front of you, walking forward several steps, then pulling back several steps. Avoid the combination of bending and twisting as it puts you at risk of a back injury.

Lifting

Protect your lower back by lifting heavy loads with your legs. Separate your feet shoulder apart. Bend at the knees, not at the hips or lower back. slightly arch your back, keeping your abdominal muscles tight to help support your back. Then lift with your legs, not your back. Be sure to get help when lifting very heavy objects.

Squatting

Avoid prolonged deep squatting as it stresses vital tissues within the knee joint such as cartilage and ligaments. Instead, kneel on one knee being sure to alternate knees, or if possible, try to sit.

Ladders

Many spring cleaning chores such as cleaning gutters and trimming trees involve the use of a ladder. Select the right height of ladder for the job. Check it for loose or broken rungs, missing or loose screws, or defective hinges. Set it up on a firm, level surface. Avoid over reaching as it can lead to back and neck pain. Be sure to reposition the ladder as necessary to be close to your work. Do not climb ladders if you have a balance disorder or are taking any medication that may affect your balance. Most of all do not be too pround to ask for help. ;)