Carving a jack-o’-lantern can be a messy, sticky business, but it only makes matters worse if you hurt your back in the process. But if you know how to carve a pumpkin while using the correct sitting posture, you can avoid back pain and keep the smile on your face as well as that of your ghoulish gourd.
How to Carve a Pumpkin and Avoid Back Pain
You’ve probably heard about the concept of workplace ergonomics and how it can help you avoid back pain at the office. It’s a lot of work to carve a pumpkin, so it’s just as important that you know how to do it in an ergonomic way. That means not sitting hunched over your pumpkin, which can cause tightness and soreness in your neck, shoulders, and back.
Ideally, you’ll position your pumpkin on a table that you can reach without overextending your arms or rounding your back. You may occasionally need to change positions or stand, but your focus should be on keeping neutral spine position as much as possible throughout the process. If you have an especially large pumpkin, be sure to take breaks here and there.
Another great way to carve a pumpkin and avoid back pain is to come prepared. And we don’t just mean with the right tools and a big, orange pumpkin. Take some time before you start to stretch, focusing on your neck, shoulders, back, arms, and chest. This will keep you limber and open, letting you get through your carving more easily. When you’re done, stretch again just to be on the safe side—and make sure you save those leftover seeds for a healthy snack!
If you want to avoid back pain this spooky season, it’s not enough just to know how to carve a pumpkin with correct posture. You should also make sure that you use good posture while picking out your pumpkin to avoid a back injury. Lift with your legs, keep your back straight, and use a wagon if you’re picking a big one or several at once.
Avoid Back Pain With Chiropractic in Rochelle, IL
Even if you know how to carve a pumpkin and use correct posture while sitting, back pain and other issues can get in the way of enjoying your Halloween. That’s why now is a great time to make sure you’re ready with the help of Wills Chiropractic in Rochelle, IL. For everything from chiropractic care and massage to lifestyle coaching, we’re here to help—schedule your appointment online or call us at (815) 562-5333 to get started.