It’s a Pain! Groomer, Jenny Farrell looks at how to cope when you are grooming in pain:
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any groomers and nongroomers suffer from pain whether it is due to repetitive strain or a health
condition. As a pet stylist for over 12 years working in salons, vans and having my own salon, I suffered with a painful condition called CRPS (Complex Regional Pain Syndrome) and autonomic dysfunction, which are both neurological nerve disorders. It is basically like having your hands crushed and twisted and then set on fire all at once constantly so, as you can imagine, grooming is a challenge! I want to share with my fellow groomers how to cope with a painful condition and still stay grooming! Although my condition is rare, I see many stylists in pain, and unable to alleviate the situation themselves. Firstly, pace yourself ! You really need to pace your grooming life from day one and if you’re not, then start now! I am a workaholic, I go to work early and work all the way through – with no breaks and then leave late. However, this has done me no favours. If there’s one thing to take away from the article it is to pace your grooms - slow down and don’t do big dogs that you cannot physically do or know will cause your body pain and discomfort. I now only do small breeds and work part-time but remain in business. In fact, I earn almost the same amount!
Do not be scared of turning away difficult dogs. Drink lots of clear fluid, eat healthy meals and keep active outside of grooming. Your body needs water and dehydrated bodies are sluggish. If you suffer from inflammation you should look into a diet which reduces joint inflammation. I have always been active outside of grooming but even if 30 | Total Grooming Magazine
Jenny Farrell manages her schedule with care to minimise pain and anxiety
