There are lots of things to do once the warmer weather arrives, and gardening is one activity many homeowners love. Once spring arrives, it’s natural to want to elevate your garden as this will improve the look of your property.
While gardening can be both therapeutic and fun, it also involves a lot of bending and reaching, and your body may have to move in ways it is not used to. These unfamiliar movement patterns can lead to pain, discomfort, or even injury, so you must take appropriate precautions.
You may be surprised that back pain is one of the most common problems during the spring because of gardening, so it can happen to anyone, regardless of age or experience.
If you get the urge to get your hands dirty come spring, you have to remember the following tips to avoid lower back pain injury:
- Do not try to carry one large load of dirt or debris, and try carrying several small loads instead. Not only will this tactic reduce the risk of lower back injury, but it will also prevent you from struggling throughout the process.
- Keep heavy loads close to your body when lifting and use a wide support base.
- Ask your family members or friends to help because teamwork will not only make gardening easier it will also make it more enjoyable.
- Sit on a step stool when doing low-level work as this will limit low back strain.
These simple steps will make a very big difference, so no matter how excited you may be, you need to take the time to do it right; otherwise, you may end up with an injury. Selecting the right tools is equally as important as this, too will help you avoid a lower back injury. Buy a watering can with a long spout, as this will allow you to access your plants more easily without having to hold heavy loads away from your body. The use of knee pads or portable cushions is also highly recommended as these will protect your joints when kneeling. Always stretch before and after gardening and take breaks to ease muscle strain.
You should also be mindful of sunburns, and heat stroke, so use lots of sunscreens and drink plenty of water. Wear a hat to help reduce dehydration and try to garden early in the morning or late in the day if possible.
If you do experience lower back pain as a result of gardening or any other activity, you will have to seek treatment from a reputable physiotherapist—the experts at Apex Physiotherapy & Chiropractic can help! We will provide you with the best treatment, and our techniques, skills and experience will help manage your pain. We provide comprehensive physiotherapy services, including acupuncture. If you are looking for a physiotherapist near you in Pickering or Ajax, contact our clinic today!