AVOID ACHING FROM RAKING !

Here are some tips for making those pesky lawn care chores easier --

- Choose the right tool: a standard width (24-inch) rake requires less downward pressure to drag leaves across a lawn than an extra-wide (36-inch) rake. Ergonomic rakes, often with a bent handle, are designed to reduce bending, but aren't a good fit for everyone. Buy a rake with a soft grip that's comfortable for your height and strength. Before buying, practice raking movements in the store.

- Wear shoes with slip-resistant soles, and if needed, apply sunscreen and tick repellent.

- Pick up any debris that could cause you to trip.

- Warm up with light activity before raking and stretch afterwards to minimize aching muscles. Therapeutic massage and heat (warm shower or heating pad) can also be helpful.

- Wear gloves, and keep space between your hands on the grip to increase leverage. Alternate leg and arm positions and switch sides.

- To prevent back injury, don't overfill leaf bags. When picking up leaves, bend at the knees, not the waist -- use your leg muscles instead of your back muscles.

- Don't twist to toss leaves over a shoulder or to the side.

- When you're finished put the rake away so no one gets hurt by stepping on it by mistake.

Source: Consumer Reports, American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons



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