HEALTH
If you’re gardening, mowing, and planting this summer, the daily yard work may be taking a toll on your body – especially your back. While you keep your garden looking gorgeous and healthy, Blackstone Orthopedics & Sports Medicine wants to provide you with 4 easy ways to garden smarter.
1) Hold weight close to your body. When holding heavy gardening items such as mulch, keep the bags close to your abdominal core. Don’t extend your arms because this can put more stress on upper body muscles.
2) Use your legs and core, not your back. Bend your knees to distribute weight, don’t lock your knees. This will lighten the load on your lower back.
3) Face your task. If you plan on planting flowers for hours, square your shoulders to the area that you are working, avoiding twisting and overreaching. Keep plants in front of you as you work. Move a stool or kneeling carpet directly in front of your flowerbed.
4) Take it one day at a time. Don’t overdo it, your yard may take longer than a day to achieve how you would like it to appear. Take one day to pull weeds and shop for flowers the next, muscles need time to build back their strength.
If you have soreness that is above the waistline or belt from overdoing gardening, the pain should subside within a few days. If soreness and numbness persists, contact Blackstone Orthopedics & Sports Medicine. We have experienced orthopedic surgeons that are happy to assist you by providing you with knowledgeable health and fitness information. Visit our website or call (800) 725-3037 to schedule an appointment at any of our 8 locations.
