X-Mas Ergonomics

WARNING: Be careful when wrapping presents! Always be aware of your posture and correct ergonomics when preparing you and your loved ones for the holiday festivities. On top of ergonomics make sure that you are feeding your body with plenty of good fruits, vegetables, whole grains and 8-10 glasses of water a day.

The holiday season is upon us and that means it’s time for fun, stress and presents, but before that comes wrapping all of those gifts. Many people do not think about using proper posture while wrapping gifts, which is a big mistake. If you have to wrap more than one gift you must be aware of your body so that you can prevent injury. Here are some tips to keep your body and spine safe while wrapping:

1. Do not sit on the floor or a soft surface. You should be standing so that every time you bend forward you don’t increase the stress on your Lumbar spine and Pelvis.
2. Set up a card table or clear off a counter top to work at.
3. Do not spend extended periods of time reaching over for things. If you cannot reach it while standing upright, then walk around the table or counter until you can reach it.
4. If gifts are on the floor make sure you bend at the knees when picking things up instead of bending over from the hips.
5. If you are wrapping an oversized present make sure you ask for help from a friend or family member so that you don’t strain you back lifting or reaching to wrap.
6.  And last but not least, take breaks! If you have been wrapping for 30-45 minutes take a quick break. Get a drink of water, take a walk or do some quick stretches.

If you follow these tips there will be one less stressor during your holidays this year. If you have any questions regarding the correct ergonomics of any task please contact us at Performance Spine and Sports Medicine. Happy Holidays!!

Dr. Susie