Safety Tips for Raking

As we enjoy the fall foliage, it’s important to make sure we’re raking properly. Many of the injuries we see at Morgan Chiropractic in Anchorage could have been prevented with better safety protocols. To help our patients stay healthy, we wanted to pass along some advice.


Anytime we do yard work, we should avoid wearing jewelry or other dangling objects. While clothing should be breathable and unrestrictive, it should also be form-fitting. Shoes should be close-toed and have non-skid soles. Prior to raking, spend about five minutes warming up by doing dynamic stretches that will increase blood flow to your limbs.


Use a rake that is lightweight, but with a long enough handle that you don’t have to stoop down. One of your hands should be near the handle’s top, the other mid-way down. Stand in a scissor position next to the leaf pile and avoid twisting your torso. About every ten minutes, switch hand positions, and be sure to keep your head up. Take care not to fill the bag all the way to the top, or it will be too heavy to lift. Test it while filling it to ensure it is still a manageable weight. Do a cool-down after you’re finished. Remember, spinal adjustments can prevent core-strengthening activities like raking from causing wear-and-tear injuries to the body.


Dr. Loren Morgan is located at Morgan Chiropractic at 11260 Old Seward Hwy Suite 106, Anchorage, Alaska, 99515. To schedule an appointment, visit Morgan Chiropractic or call 907-646-2211.

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