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For many, gardening is a therapeutic and rewarding activity. The fresh air, clean garden bed, and vibrant plants sure make for instant gratification. However, if we only focus on the end result we may end up injuring ourselves in the process.
Whether it is from poor posture, overworking, a simple misstep, or a number of other things, it is possible for gardening to cause some aches and pains. In fact, it is a little more common than you'd think!
Each year we see a number of patients looking for relief from pain, and tips to make gardening, easier and pain-free.
Instead of being reactive, consider utilizing the following tips to proactively reduce the chance of you falling victim to troubles following a day of gardening.
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Check out our top seven tips...
- Do a little bit of warming up your body and stretching prior to gardening. Preparing your body for gardening is important!
- Use good body mechanics, such as bending your knees as you hinge from the hips to pick something up, or place something back on the ground.
- Consider using a knee pad and garden down on all fours, or using a small stool. Alternatively, work from a deep squat position if that is comfortable for you.
- Watch your step! It is not uncommon for us to see a patient who rolled their ankle while gardening because of a simple misstep.
- Take plenty of breaks. While the motions of gardening may seem simple, they can be quite taxing on the body, especially if you are doing them for a long period of time, or if they are not done properly.
- Drink plenty of water. Hydration is always a key component to any sort of activity! It will also help prevent muscle cramps.
- End the day with some stretching.
