Orthopaedic surgeons offer tips to prevent injuries throughout the home and yard this spring

As the weather becomes warmer, people start preparing their homes and yards for the spring and summer seasons. Projects such as yard work, cleaning and painting become priorities on the to-do list. The statistics show that thousands of orthopaedic injuries occur each year as a result of mishaps around the house and is one of the reasons why the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) urges people to take the proper safety precautions to reduce the number of spring cleaning-related accidents.

"Many spring cleaning injuries occur when people rush or do not follow the proper safety precautions," explained Danton Dungy, MD, spokesperson for the AAOS. "Because most injuries are preventable, orthopaedic surgeons stress using the appropriate equipment for each project and that people take their time when cleaning in order to minimize these seasonal accidents."

Because orthopaedic surgeons not only treat, but try to prevent injuries of the bones, joints and muscles, the Academy recommends the following spring cleaning tips:

• Proper techniques for lifting, carrying and bending should be part of any spring cleaning project:
  
  
  • Separate your feet, shoulder-width apart, keep your back upright and bend at the knees while tightening the stomach muscles.
    
    
  • Lift with your leg muscles as you stand up; don't try to lift any object by yourself if it is too heavy or an awkward shape.
    
    
• Use a step stool instead of furniture—such as a couch or dining room chair—when dusting hard to reach areas.
  
  
• Ladders used for chores—such as washing windows, painting, cleaning gutters and trimming trees— should be placed on a firm, level surface. Never place a ladder on ground or flooring that is uneven, soft or wet.
  
  
• Over-reaching or leaning too far to one side when working on a ladder can also make you lose your balance and fall. Your bellybutton should not go beyond the sides of the ladder.
  
  
• When gardening, avoid prolonged repetitive motions during activities such as digging, planting trimming and pruning. It is also important to wear gloves to reduce blistering and protect the skin.
  
  
• Read product labels for proper use and wear protective clothing and gloves when using chemicals for gardening or cleaning. Store all chemicals—at the appropriate temperature, which is usually indicated on the package—in a place that is out of reach of both children and pets.
  
  
• Take frequent breaks and replenish fluids to prevent dehydration. If you experience chest pain, shortness of breath or other signs of a heart attack, seek emergency care, such as by calling 9-1-1.

The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons is the preeminent provider of musculoskeletal education to orthopaedic surgeons and others in the world.

For More Information

The Canadian Orthopaedic Association's website includes consumer information about bone and joint health, including "Preventing Injuries in the Home."

The Canadian Safety Council offers more tips about safety around the house, and information about senior safety. The CSC also sponsors National Summer Safety Week each May.