There’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of a DIY project. However, it can come at a price. Sharp tools, heavy materials, and long periods of time spent bending or lifting can cause physical complaints like cuts, bruises, and pain in the hands, wrists, shoulders, and back.
Aside from these obvious physical complaints, there are more subtle ones that you might not expect. In this article, I’ll cover all the physical complaints you can get from DIY work. Additionally, I’ll provide tips on how to avoid them.
DIY and Carpentry: A Pain in the Body
DIY and carpentry work can cause a lot of physical complaints. Here are some of the most common ones:
- Cuts: Sharp tools and power tools can cause cuts that range from small to significant. It’s important to know how to handle tools properly and to wear gloves and other protective gear.
- Hand and wrist pain: Holding and carrying heavy materials or tools can cause pain in your hands and wrists. It’s important to take breaks and stretch regularly to avoid this.
- Shoulder pain: Carrying heavy materials or tools can also cause pain in your shoulders. Make sure to compensate for the weight by holding it close to your body and using your whole body to lift.
- Back pain: Extended periods of time spent bending or carrying heavy materials can cause back pain. Remember to maintain good posture and take breaks to stretch.
- Hot water burns: When working with hot water, it’s important to be prepared and wear protective gear to avoid burns.
- Eye injuries: Sawdust and other debris can cause eye injuries. Always wear protective eyewear.
- Fatigue: DIY and carpentry work can be physically demanding, especially if you’re not used to it. Make sure to take breaks and listen to your body.
The Importance of Safety
It’s essential to pay close attention to safety when doing DIY and carpentry work. This includes:
- Knowing how to use tools correctly: Take the time to learn how to use each tool properly before starting a project.
- Using protective gear: Wear gloves, safety glasses, and other protective gear as needed.
- Setting up a safe work area: Make sure your work area is well-lit and free of clutter.
- Using accurate measurements: Incorrect measurements can lead to bad cuts and other mistakes that can be dangerous.
- Handling materials correctly: Make sure to put away materials correctly to avoid tripping hazards.
Conclusion
So, that’s it. You can get all kinds of physical complaints from diy work, from cuts to shoulder pain to eye injuries and burns. But if you’re careful and use the right safety gear, you can do it safely. Just remember to listen to your body and take breaks when needed. So, don’t be afraid to DIY!
I'm Joost Nusselder, the founder of Tools Doctor, content marketer, and dad. I love trying out new equipment, and together with my team I've been creating in-depth blog articles since 2016 to help loyal readers with tools & crafting tips.
