Making house work healthy!

The JOC provides easy tips from the experts on how to avoid back problems doing everyday chores.

It is surprising just how many people suffer back injuries by simply carrying out their everyday chores.

The JOC has a vision for sport and healthy living to play a part in the everyday lives of all Jordanians, so has teamed up with industry experts to provide some simple tips whilst carrying out house work.

They may seem obvious, but by following them you will reduce the likelihood of suffering a back injury significantly.

Hanging the washing

Who would have thought that simply hanging up the washing could pose a health threat to your back? It does, if it is not done properly.

Many people make the mistake of curving the back for long periods whilst hanging the washing on the line, but the advice is simple, keep it straight wherever possible.

By standing straight up and using both hands to do the hanging makes a huge difference, and no slouching.

The same mistake can be made while reaching for clothes from the basket. Again, keep the back straight and bend the knees.

Making the bed

This is blamed regularly for numerous back injuries. People try to rush through it and throw the heavy weight of the duvet around without thought. Let the leg muscles take the strain. Avoid bending and crouching and bend the legs whilst tucking in sheets and arranging covers.

Brushing your teeth

How many of us spend the whole time whilst cleaning our teeth hunched over the wash basin?

The answer could well be all of us, but did you realise the strain that you are placing on your back?

The advice again is clear. Stand upright and let the shoulders and arms take the strain. Only bend when you need to spit or wash your mouth. Keep the arm raised whilst brushing and stand straight facing the mirror.

Don’t slump with the Hoover!

A simple mistake but again one that could have painful consequences. The temptation is to curve the back whilst hoovering up. Don’t! Straighten yourself and make sure your footwear is suitable.

Ironing woes

Standing at the ironing board for long periods can be lethal if not done properly. A big pile can mean an hour or two of ironing so it has to be done correctly or your back will tell you! Adjust the ironing board to a suitable height so you don’t have to bend over. Ideally it would mean your arm is at a 90-degree angle to the body.

So there you have it, some simple tips to potentially avoid countless visits to the doctor and years of back pain. Follow them every day and they will make a huge difference.