Spring is just around the corner! Gardening is a great springtime activity to spend time outside, get fresh air, and enjoy the beautiful weather while participating in a physical activity. Gardening activities include digging, planting, weeding, mulching, and raking. These physical activities are a great way to get moving but can also put stress on your joints and muscles. We have compiled a list of tips to make sure that you can garden safely while still enjoying the activity you love:
1. Warm up! Before you start lifting heavy flower pots or bags of mulch, go for a short, brisk walk or work on some stretching exercises.
2. Use a wheelbarrow to move very heavy planting materials to avoid putting strain on your back
3. Use knee pads or a small stool to sit on if kneeling on the ground is causing pain in your knees. Also, do not stay in the same position for too long. Make sure you're getting up and moving around to avoid stiffness or discomfort.
4. Use good body mechanics. This means that if you need to lift something heavy, you should bend your knees, keep your back straight, and avoid twisting your spine. Keep whatever you are lifting close to your body and if it is very heavy, ask another person to help you move it.
5. When you are done gardening for the day, do some more stretching and consider going for another short walk to cool down.
Use these tips when you garden and you should be able to enjoy a season full of beautiful blooms without pain! If you do experience pain in your body while gardening or enjoying other outdoor activities this spring, call ProFysio for a consultation!