As a nation, we love our gardens and spend a considerable amount of time and money on them. As we rush to get those jobs in the garden done, especially this time of the year and with the weather the way it is at present, there is a risk that gardeners may injure themselves.
What everyone wants is to be fit and healthy enough to actually enjoy sitting in their garden and enjoy the fruits of their labours come summertime, so here are some helpful tips from the Lymington Chiropractic Clinic.
Dress appropriately
Don’t wear clothes that are tight or constrict your movement.
Gardening is like any other exercise – you need to warm up first.
Don’t go straight into heavy garden work, start off with lighter jobs first. This will lessen the chance of muscle strain.
Don’t twist again
If you have to use a ladder for any of your gardening tasks, make sure you are always facing it. Rather than lean or reach from the ladder, move it regularly to be close to the area that needs attention.
When using the ladder, always keep your shoulders, hips and knees pointing in the same direction.
Clever pruning
Get as close as possible to the things you are pruning – avoid overstretching to reach the area you are dealing with.
Invest in some long handled secateurs to reach plants and bushes that are beyond normal reach.
Digging deep
When digging, try not to bend or twist during the movement and alternate the foot you use to drive the spade into the ground. Also, be aware of the type of soil in your garden. If it’s cloggy clay, it’ll be harder to dig and turnover, so try not to overload the spade or use a fork initially to break up the clay.
Raking is best achieved with short movements – don’t reach out too far.
Potting/planting
Use a mat and kneel when doing close weeding work or planting out.
When potting up your plants, it is much better to do this at a table.
Take a break
Vary your activity. Spend no more than 20-30 minutes on any one thing and take regular breaks.
Be clever with the paving
If laying a patio keep the slab close to your body and bend your knees.
It is sometimes better to position yourself with one knee bent, as your supporting leg gives you a position of strength.
Plan ahead
If you are planning a trip to the local DIY store and buying heavy items, such as cement or gravel, buy smaller bags rather than one big bag as they are easier and safer to carry. If you do buy heavy items, ask an assistant at the store to help you.
Don’t let aches and pains hold you back
If pain or discomfort is getting in the way of your gardening, then please give us a call on 01590 679560 or BOOK ONLINE and we will be happy to help.