To all those with a green thumb, spring and summer seasons are a favorite time of year! It’s the time for planting and tending to a garden. Doing yard work can be relaxing and enjoyable, however, after a long winter of not engaging in these activities, there can be risks to your back, spine, joints, and muscles.
Warm Up Your Muscles and Joints
Stretch Stretch Stretch! Taking the time to stretch and essentially warm up before beginning each gardening session can make all the difference in avoiding muscle pain and strains. In general It can also help you keep your back, neck, and spine healthy, balanced and free of subluxations.
Once you are finished doing gardening/yard work, another stretching session can help you to avoid stiffness, tightness and muscle pain that evening or the next day.
Use Good Form
When gardening activities and doing yard work responsibilities, proper form is necessary to avoiding injury. Try hard to not bend at the waist when lifting or planting. Instead, keep the spine straight and bend at the knees. Keep all joints tracking straight as you garden or do yard work; try not to twist or lean at awkward angles.
Manage Sun and Heat Exposure
As the summer continues, hot temperatures will only come and be a hazard while gardening. Be sure to wear proper sun protection to avoid sunburn, drink lots of water to stay hydrated and take breaks as appropriate so that you don’t overheat.