Protect Your Back This Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is a wonderful time for family, gratitude, and delicious food, but it can also bring an unexpected guest: back pain. Hours spent standing, bending, and lifting in the kitchen can easily lead to back and muscle pain. To protect yourself, pay attention to posture while cooking or cleaning. Keep your shoulders relaxed, your core gently engaged and avoid hunching over the counter. Use a supportive mat under your feet, wear comfortable shoes, and position items at waist level whenever possible to minimize awkward bending and reaching. Small adjustments like these can make a big difference in how your body feels by the end of the day!

Cook Smart — Spread It Out Over Three Days
One of the best ways to prevent back and musculoskeletal injuries is to plan your Thanksgiving tasks over several days instead of tackling everything at once. On day one, prep ingredients and make items that can be stored easily, like desserts or casseroles. On day two, focus on assembling side dishes and brining the turkey. Then, on Thanksgiving morning, handle the main cooking and reheating. Spreading your efforts across three days not only reduces strain on your body but also allows you to enjoy a calmer, more organized holiday experience.

Stretch, Move, and Share the Load
During the big meal prep, take short breaks every 30-45 minutes to stretch your back, roll your shoulders, and walk around. When lifting heavy dishes or pans, bend at the knees and lift with your legs instead of your lower back. And don’t hesitate to ask family members for help; teamwork makes the meal (and your spine) much happier.

A Thanksgiving to Feel Good About
By pacing your cooking and staying mindful of posture, you can protect your back and enjoy the holiday with more comfort and energy. Being ergonomically conscientious means respecting your body’s limits, and that self-care helps you show up fully for the moments that matter most. So, take a deep breath, stretch when you need to, and savor the warmth of family, gratitude, and a pain-free Thanksgiving season!

From us at Santoro Chiropractic to you, we’re thankful for you and hope you have a wonderful and chiropractic-safe Thanksgiving!