Simple, daily chores can lead to severe back pain. Lifting heavy items at the supermarket, gardening and other household tasks can make you suffer for days or weeks. With some proper planning, however, you can avoid injuring your back unnecessarily.

Dealing With Large Supermarket Items

To save money, many consumers are buying products in larger but heavier packages. To keep their budgets in check, they are hauling large containers of water, laundry detergent and other items out of the market and into their homes. For example, the best way to economize on cat litter is to purchase a 40-pound bag.

This sensible approach, which is good for the wallet, can have a detrimental impact on your back. Lifting this type of weight at the gym is no easy feat, even for those who have developed greater strength. Most of us do not have the ability to handle these heavy items but need to select products with the best prices.

To avoid injuring your back while lifting heavy supermarket items, here are some important tips:

• Ask store personnel to help you transport these items and load them in your car.

• Use a wagon or cart with wheels at home to move packages from your car to the door.

• Empty the contents in larger containers into smaller ones, which you can manage more easily.

Gardening With a Sensible Approach

Heavy bags of gardening soil and other supplies can present another major challenge. During the change of seasons, those who need to bring large plants inside during the winter also face potential back injuries. The following are some preventative steps:

• Use a wheelbarrel to transport large bags of soil

• Scoop up smaller quantities in individual pots

• Use a large trash bag to slide large plants inside your home

Completing Household Chores With Help

When you need to move a heavy item at home, sometimes you need to ask for help. If you need to flip your mattress because it’s lumpy on the one side, wait until someone can assist you. To budge any weighty item on your own, think the process through first before you edge one corner along slowly and carefully.

If you’ve injured your back while doing these or other tasks, the physicians at Non-Surgical Orthopaedics can help with pain relief. Call 770-421-1420 to schedule an appointment now.