Helpful tips for coping with the festive season

Christmas is a time for spending quality time with family and friends. The Bow House Physiotherapists remind you that by taking a few easy precautions you can minimise the potential festive risks leaving you free to enjoy the holiday period. We have set out a few tips to help you avoid the pitfalls associated with this special time of year.

Tips:-

Lifting the Turkey When lifting the turkey in and out of the oven take a moment to consider the following:- Keep the Turkey close to the waist for as long as possible while lifting (taking care when it is hot!). The distance of the load from the spine at waist height is an important factor in the overall load on the spine and back muscles. Your feet should be apart with one leg slightly forward to maintain balance and be prepared to move your feet during the lift in order to maintain a stable posture. Manoevre your lift as smoothly as possible and don’t lift or handle more than you can easily manage.Move your feet to avoid twisting. If you're in doubt get someone to help you or stage the lift into two by using a firm surface halfway between the oven and work surface heights. 

Stairs Stairs should be kept well lit and free of clutter to avoid guests falling down the stairs. Make sure you are wearing sensible shoes or slippers to minimise the risks.

Presents It is possible to trip over toys and the cables of new electric gadgets or equipment. Christmas trees and decorations It may be hard to believe but statistics show that every year approximately 1,000 people are injured by their Christmas tree. Over-reaching to place your lights and decorations on the top of your tree can cause falls/and or back/neck strain. Always use a step ladder to avoid falling when putting up decorations around the house. Make sure someone is with you when using the ladder.