For Immediate Release
For more information, contact:Todd Schuetz(847) 384-4032, [email protected]
Teena Austin(847) 384-403, [email protected]
Spring-cleaning related injuries concern among orthopaedic surgeonsAcademy offers practical tips for spring-cleaning
ROSEMONT, Ill.--Spring is here and for many, that means an endless list of chores. Cleaning, fix-it-up projects, painting, yard work, working in the garden, and planting are just a few things on your to-do list. While many look forward to working in the garden and around the house, thousands of injuries occur each year as a result of mishaps around the home. A number of activities can be dangerous or even deadly if the proper precautions are not taken.
Seniors may be at a greater risk due to underlying health problems so extra precaution is suggested. This spring, orthopaedic surgeons recommend the following guidelines for your spring-cleaning projects:
*Stretching and proper warm-up-before beginning activities such as gardening or clean-up projects around the home: always remember to stretch the upper body to reduce the chance of injuries.
*Proper techniques for lifting, carrying and bending should be part of any spring-cleaning project. There is a right and a wrong way to lift. It is important to separate your feet, shoulder-width apart and bend at the knees while tightening the stomach muscles. Lift with your leg muscles as you stand up and don't try to lift any object by yourself if it is too heavy or an awkward shape.
*When raking, don't twist your body--instead, use your legs to shift your weight and switch sides. Instead of getting on your hands and knees to clean the floor, use a mop. When you are vacuuming, push the vacuum in front of you and walk in a long line, then pull back the same way. Pushing and pulling a vacuum in short strokes can hurt your back.
*Many spring-cleaning chores such as cleaning gutters and trimming trees involve the use of a ladder. Knowing how to properly set up and use a ladder is an important first step in reducing the chance of a fall or other ladder-related accident. The Academy offers extensive guidelines for the proper use of the ladder on the web site, www.aaos.org.
*Serious traumatic injuries can be caused by improper use of lawn mowers and gardening tools. These tools can be dangerous if not used properly or kept in good repair. Every spring before using a lawnmower, have it serviced to make sure it is working properly. The Academy offers safety tips for proper use of lawn mowers and gardening tools on the web site, www.aaos.org.
*Many of the chemicals used in the garden or in cleaning are considered dangerous and may cause serious health problems if not used properly. Read product labels for proper use and wear protective clothing and gloves when using chemicals. Store all household and garden chemicals properly.
"Helping people avoid needless injury is a number one priority of orthopaedic surgeons," said Vernon T. Tolo, MD, president of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons and Los Angeles orthopaedic surgeon. "Prevent Injuries America! is an important step toward protecting yourself and your family from these all too common occurrences, now and in the future."
Internet users can find household, recreational, and injury prevention information, and more, in the Prevent Injuries America! section of the Academy's web site, www.aaos.org, or call the Academy's Public Service line at 800-824-BONES, or send a stamped, self-addressed envelope to "Spring Cleaning," P. O. Box 1998, Des Plaines, IL 60017.
An orthopaedic surgeon is a physician with extensive training in the diagnosis and non-surgical as well as surgical treatment of the musculoskeletal system, including bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, muscles and nerves.
The 25,500-member American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons is a not-for-profit organization that provides education programs for orthopaedic surgeons, allied health professionals and the public.
An advocate for improved patient care, the Academy is participating in the Bone and Joint Decade (www.boneandjointdecade.org), the global initiative to raise awareness of musculoskeletal health, stimulate research and improve people's quality of life. President Bush has
###
RSS