Spring Gardening Tips To Avoid Injury While Gardening

By Jane Cunningham, PT

La Plata Physical Therapy, Inc.

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Spring Gardening Tips To Avoid Injury While Gardening

Spring has arrived. As always, it is good to be on the move. At this time of year, we may find ourselves out in the garden.

The following stretching exercises will help to prepare your body for all of the lifting, bending and lunges to come.

1. While standing, put your hands on your hips and twist slowly to the right, then to the left, holding each to a count of five. Repeat 10 times.

2. While standing, stretch your arms out in front and hold for five seconds, then stretch arms out behind and count to five. Repeat 10 times.

Enjoy. Gardening is a good way to cultivate your health.

Kneeling

Stand up frequently and stretch to avoid getting stiff. Use a pad under your knees, to absorb the pressure. Also, lean on your hands to absorb some of the weight.

Lifting

Don’t try if it is too heavy. Test by lifting one corner. Roll or push heavy loads. If it is a bag of mulch, take some out before moving.

Pulling

Place your feet apart, bend your knees and lean away from the object. Pull by straightening your legs. Always face the object and keep your back straight.

Limit the amount of physical activity you do the first day out, especially if you have a history of back or heart problems.