Don’t bite off more than you can chew!

We are a nation of DIY enthusiasts; we rush to get to grips with our latest home

improvement project at every opportunity and during this time of lockdown we have more time on our hands and are looking to get all those outstanding jobs done on our to do list – inevitably there will be DIY disasters and injuries that could have been avoided (it’s the last thing the NHS need right now)!

Don’t despair if you are not prepared or have supplies, although most DIY stores are not currently open for supplies, but many are still offering an online service or click and collect.

Whether you are washing windows, clearing gutters, painting walls or revamping your garden furniture here are some helpful tips for DIY enthusiasts from the British Chiropractic Association….

  • When painting a ceiling, think about how to get the largest amount of paint on the ceiling in the shortest space of time.
  • Use a large paint pad or a roller with an extended handle (hold it at chest height.)
  • Keep your head in as neutral position as possible and keep facing forward; don’t over stretch your neck.
  • If you can lie down to do the job using a platform, do! Don’t twist again
  • If you need to use a ladder, make sure you are always facing it and move the ladder regularly, rather than leaning to reach your goal.
  • Always keep your shoulders, hips and knees pointing in the same direction. Treat DIY like normal exercise
  • Warm up and warm down to lessen the chance of muscle strains. Dress appropriately
  • Don’t wear tight, constricting clothes – be comfortable and make sure your clothing has plenty of room to give with your movement.
  • Take a break – Vary your activity and try to spend no more than 20-30 minutes on any one thing. If painting, you can still take short breaks without causing a problem. It is important to take breaks to avoid being in the same position for too long.
  • If you do buy heavy items, use a trolley. Don’t lift with your arms straight out, keep the elbows bent and to your side to minimise the stress on your back. If having items delivered, have them unloaded as close to where you need them as possible; this will save the effort of moving them again.

We hope you all take care and enjoy your DIY projects without accident or injury!