At one point or another, we’ve probably all been guilty of leaving our Christmas shopping until the very last minute. Each time it happens, we promise ourselves to be more organised next Christmas. And then another 12 months pass and we find ourselves on yet another Christmas Eve, charging through the shop aisles quicker than Santa gets around the world. Then, when we’ve finally managed to get everything we need, we trek for what seems like 100 miles back to our cars, carrying half of Toys R Us in each arm! And lastly, to complete a back-busting shopping spree, we spend our journey home on standstill; gridlocked between the masses of other super-stressed last minute shoppers who are once again vowing never to put themselves through it next year.
It’s hardly surprising that our backs are more prone to injuries at Christmastime!
Back problems can be common over the festive season. And according to our Fareham chiropractor, Christmas shopping can be a frequent culprit for back pain.
Fortunately, we have some great tips to avoid straining your back while Christmas shopping:
- Use a shopping trolley and balance the weight of your shopping bags evenly in each hand.
- Swap your weight from foot to foot when standing in long shopping queues.
- Walk with your tummy tucked in and your hips tucked slightly under. Walk with natural strides as this will allow each foot to roll from heel to toe in a smooth motion.
- Choose flat, sensible shoes that provide adequate support.
- Don’t leave your shopping until the very last minute! Arrange several small shopping trips rather than one major over-loaded spree.
- Ask a shop assistant or a friend for help with any heavy or awkward items.
- It can be tricky to find a parking space close to the shops at Christmastime, so arrange for someone to drop you off and collect you.
- Give yourself plenty of time to take frequent rest breaks.
- Drink lots of water to stay hydrated.
- Do your gift wrapping sitting down at a table rather than standing and bending over it or kneeling on the floor.
- Watch out for any icy or slippery surfaces.
Keep your back safe and have a wonderful Christmas!
Our Experience Counts: 55 Years in Fareham
Serving the people of Fareham, and surrounding areas of Southampton, Portsmouth, Hampshire and the local areas of Whiteley, Hedge End, Locks Heath & Portchester
