Gardening is a fun and rewarding activity that can also be physically demanding. If you’re not careful, you can easily end up with aches and pains in your back, neck, shoulders, and knees. But there are a few things you can do to prevent pain while gardening in the springtime.
Warm up before you start gardening.
Just like you wouldn’t start running without warming up first, you shouldn’t start gardening without warming up either. A few minutes of light exercise, such as walking or stretching, will help to get your blood flowing and your muscles loose.
Use the right tools.
Using the right tools can make a big difference in preventing pain. Make sure your tools are the right size and shape for your hands and body. You should also use tools that are designed for the specific task you’re doing. For example, use a long-handled hoe for weeding and a short-handled trowel for planting.
Take breaks.
Don’t try to do too much too soon. Take breaks throughout the day to rest and stretch. This will help to prevent your muscles from getting fatigued and sore.
Lift properly.
When you’re lifting heavy objects, such as bags of soil or mulch, be sure to lift with your legs, not your back. Bend your knees and keep your back straight.
Use good posture.
Pay attention to your posture when you’re gardening. Stand up straight and avoid hunching over. This will help to prevent back pain.
Wear comfortable shoes.
Wear comfortable shoes with good support. This will help to prevent foot pain and knee pain.
Stay hydrated.
Drink plenty of water before, during, and after gardening. This will help to prevent dehydration, which can lead to fatigue and muscle cramps. Keep your water bottle with you.
Listen to your body.
If you start to feel pain, stop gardening and rest. Don’t push yourself too hard. See a doctor if the pain persists.
If you have pain that doesn’t go away after a few days, see a doctor. There may be an underlying medical condition that’s causing the pain.
Don’t be afraid to ask for help.
If you’re having trouble gardening without pain, don’t be afraid to ask for help from a friend, family member, or gardening expert.
If gardening is something that you enjoy, don’t let pain prevent you from doing it. With a little planning, you can prevent pain and enjoy gardening again.
