Preparing for Christmas is exciting, but it can also be surprisingly demanding on your back. From lifting parcels to spending hours wrapping presents, December involves plenty of bending, twisting, and carrying, all of which can contribute to discomfort if you’re not careful.
At City Chiropractic Stoke, our chiropractors often see an increase in aches and stiffness during the festive period. This blog shares practical, safe advice to help you protect your back throughout the Christmas season. All guidance is general in nature and not a substitute for personalised assessment or treatment.
Why Christmas Prep Can Lead to Back Discomfort
Many people experience an increase in back tension at this time of year, and this usually comes down to posture and repetition rather than any serious underlying issue. Common seasonal habits include:
- Sitting on the floor while wrapping gifts
- Reaching and leaning over low tables
- Carrying heavy or awkward shopping bags
- Lifting parcels delivered to your home
- Rushing to get everything done quickly
These activities can place extra strain on the spine and surrounding muscles. While occasional back tension is common, prolonged or severe discomfort should be assessed by a qualified healthcare professional.
Safe Lifting Tips to Protect Your Back
Whether you’re moving shopping bags, picking up delivery boxes, or organising presents at home, safe lifting habits can help reduce unnecessary strain.
#1 Stand Close to the Item
When lifting, position yourself close to the object to avoid overstretching. Overreaching increases load on the lower back.
#2 Bend Your Knees — Not Your Back
Lower yourself using your hips and knees while keeping your back straight. This allows your stronger leg muscles to take more of the load.
#3 Hold Items Close to Your Body
Keeping parcels close reduces the effort required from your back muscles and helps improve control.
#4 Avoid Twisting While Holding Weight
If you need to change direction, move your feet rather than twisting through your spine. Twisting under load is a common cause of strain.
#5 Know Your Limits
If a box is too heavy or awkward to handle alone, ask for help. Using trolleys, splitting loads, or taking extra trips is always safer than risking injury.
How to Make Gift Wrapping More Comfortable
Wrapping presents is one of the biggest contributors to December back ache, particularly when people sit on the floor or bend forward for long periods. These simple adjustments can make the process more comfortable:
#1 Use a Table Instead of the Floor
Choose a dining table or kitchen worktop at around waist height. This helps keep your spine in a more neutral position.
#2 Sit in a Supportive Chair (If Sitting)
A chair with good back support helps reduce slouching. Keep your feet flat on the ground to maintain stability.
#3 Keep Presents Close
Bring items toward you instead of leaning forward repeatedly. Small posture changes can make a significant difference over time.
#4 Take Frequent Breaks
Stand up, stretch, and move around every 20–30 minutes. This helps prevent stiffness from building.
#5 Use Helpful Tools
A tape dispenser, comfortable scissors, and pre-cut labels reduce the need for repetitive twisting or reaching movements.
Simple Stretches to Ease Tension
Gentle movement can help ease tightness and support overall comfort. The stretches below are general suggestions and should be performed within your normal range of movement:
- Shoulder rolls
- Gentle hamstring stretch
- Knee-to-chest stretch
- Cat–cow movement
If any stretch causes discomfort, stop immediately.
If Discomfort Occurs
Mild, short-term tension related to posture or activity is common. However, if discomfort persists, becomes more intense, or interferes with everyday activities, you may wish to seek professional assessment. A chiropractor in Stoke can provide an examination and advice tailored to your individual needs. Chiropractic care focuses on assessing joint mobility and helping to improve function through appropriate manual techniques and guidance. No claims are made to cure or treat specific conditions.
Enjoy a More Comfortable Christmas Season
With a few simple adjustments, you can make Christmas preparation more comfortable for your back. By lifting safely, using a suitable wrapping setup, and taking breaks to stretch, you can reduce strain and enjoy the festive season with greater ease.
If you’re looking for personalised back care advice from a chiropractor in Stoke this December, our clinic is here to support your comfort and wellbeing.
Schedule a Consultation with Our Stoke Chiropractors
To arrange a session with one of our chiropractors, you can either call us at 01782 848 184 or conveniently book your appointment online here.
Visiting Our Chiropractic Clinic in Stoke
Located just a short distance from the heart of Stoke-on-Trent, City Chiropractic Clinic is easily reachable for patients from the city and surrounding areas.
If you’re driving, there’s convenient parking available right across the street from the clinic.
For those using public transportation, several nearby bus routes provide frequent and reliable connections to and from Stoke.
For a full list of our opening hours, click here.