Raking Leaves
Before you rev up the lawnmower or reach for your rake this fall, consider the possible consequences: upper or lower-back strain, neck strain and pain in the shoulders.

Just as playing football or golf can injure your body, the twisting, turning, bending, and reaching of mowing and raking can also cause injury if your body is not prepared. Like an athlete, if you leap into something without warming up the chances of injury are greater.

• Stand as straight as possible, and keep your head up as you rake or mow
  
  
• When raking, use a "scissors" stance: right foot forward and left foot back for a few minutes, then reverse, putting your left foot forward and right foot back
  
  
• Bend at the knees, not the waist, as you pick up piles of leaves. Make the piles small to decrease the possibility of back strain.
  
  
• Try ergonomic tools, too. They're engineered to protect you when used properly.
  
  
• If you do feel soreness or stiffness in your back, use ice to soothe the discomfort

Shoveling snow can also wreak havoc on the musculoskeletal system. 

• When you do shovel, push the snow straight ahead. Don't try to throw it. Walk it to the snow bank. Try to limit twisting and turning motions.
  
  
• Bend your knees to lift when shoveling. Let the muscles of your legs and arms do the work, not your back.
  
  
• Take frequent rest breaks to take the strain off your muscles.
  
  
• Stop if you feel chest pain, or get really tired or have shortness of breath. You may need immediate professional help.