Spring Into Action: Tips for Avoiding Gardening & Yard Work Injuries
Finally, spring is here! The flowers are blooming, and you're itching to get outside and tackle some yard work. But before you dive headfirst into weeding, planting, and pruning, let's talk about how to avoid turning your time in the garden into a painful experience. Gardening and yard work, while rewarding, can lead to aches, pains, and injuries if you're not careful. Practice injury prevention with the following tips from our orthopedic doctors at Tri-County Orthopedics.
Warm Up & Dig In
Reaching, pulling, bending, and lifting—we may not realize that these are all common movements in gardening. Think of gardening and yard work just like any other physical activity; it is a workout that requires a warm-up. Before jumping into your first task, start with some light stretches to get your muscles and joints moving and prepared for activity. Limber up with gentle neck rolls, shoulder circles, and arm and leg stretches. A few minutes of warming up can make a big difference in preventing strains and sprains.
Gear Up for Gardening
Be sure to gather the materials you need to stay injury-free. Use gloves to protect your hands from thorns and blisters, and invest in long-handled and ergonomic tools to reduce strain in your hands and wrists and avoid excessive bending. A kneeling pad can also come in handy, especially during prolonged weeding or planting. Protect your feet with supportive shoes, and wear breathable clothing that allows for comfortable movement.
Safety First While Tending Your Garden
Being mindful of your movements and remembering these key tips will help you avoid injuries while you get your yard back into shape.
- Lift With Your Legs, Not Your Back: Bend your knees, keep your back straight, and avoid twisting. Hold objects close to your body and ask for help with heavy items to reduce strain.
- Be Smart With Your Tools: Use caution when using sharp tools, such as pruners or hedge shears.
- Switch Positions: Avoid staying in the same position for too long.
- Take Frequent Breaks: Don't try to do everything at once. Break down large jobs into smaller, manageable tasks.
- Listen to Your Body: Pay attention to any pain or discomfort you feel, and don't push yourself too hard. If you experience pain, stop and rest—ignoring pain can lead to more serious injuries. Remember, the yard work will still be there for you on another day!
By following these tips, you can enjoy your spring gardening and yard work without putting your body at risk. Our specialists hope you can get out there and make your yard beautiful—safely! If you do experience post-gardening pain or suspect an injury, please request an appointment online or call (973) 775-9283 to consult with one of our experts at Tri-County Orthopedics.