Staying injury-free while handling seasonal chores is essential, especially for musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) that can result from repetitive strain, awkward postures, and heavy lifting. Here are seven best practices to help protect yourself from these types of injuries:

1. Warm Up and Stretch: Begin with a light warm-up and stretching session to loosen muscles and improve blood flow. This helps your body prepare for repetitive motions and prevents strains.

2. Use Ergonomic Tools: Invest in tools with ergonomic handles and grips to minimize stress on your hands, wrists, and arms. Tools designed to reduce bending, like like ergonomic rakes, shovels, and wheelbarrows reduce strain on joints.

3. Use Proper Lifting Techniques: When lifting heavy items, bend at your knees, not your back. Keep the load close to your body and avoid twisting your torso to reduce strain on your spine.

4. Avoid Overreaching and Twisting: Move your feet instead of twisting your torso when reaching or turning. Twisting can strain your spine and shoulders, leading to injuries.

5. Take Frequent Breaks: Avoid repetitive strain by taking short breaks to stretch and reset your muscles. This prevents overuse injuries and helps keep your energy up.

6. Wear Supportive Gear: Consider wearing gloves to improve grip and reduce hand strain, and non-slip footwear to maintain stability, which can prevent slips and falls.

7. Listen to Your Body: If you feel pain or discomfort, stop and assess. Pushing through can lead to more severe injuries, so it’s essential to recognize and respect your limits.

Following these practices can significantly reduce the risk of MSD injuries, keeping you safe and comfortable as you tackle your fall chores.