It’s that time of year when (hopefully) things start to dry out a bit and warm up. Unfortunately, that can often mean that we get more aches and pains, back pain and injuries when out in the garden looking to tidy things up. It’s easily done after a winter off, and frustrating as you want to get back out there as soon as possible.
BOOK IN NOW if you are struggling. We can help get you back in the garden if you have muscle, joint or nerve problems affecting your quality of life.
Gardening should be a workout for your green thumb, not a literal pain in the neck (or back). Most gardening injuries are avoidable with a bit of strategy. If you struggle with stiffness in your spine, hips, or ankles, use these pro tips to keep your back happy while you work:
1. Warm Up First
Don’t dive straight into heavy lifting. Start with “low-impact” tasks like mowing, light sweeping, or raking. Think of it as a pre-game stretch to get your blood flowing before the real work begins.
2. The 30-Minute Shuffle
Repetition is the enemy of a healthy spine. To prevent joints from stiffening, switch tasks every 30 minutes. By varying your movement, you ensure no single muscle group takes the brunt of the load.
3. Lift Smarter, Not Harder
Whether you’re moving mulch or laying a patio, keep the weight close to your body.
- The Power Squat: Bend at the hips and knees, never the waist.
- The “Golfer’s Lift”: For lighter items, try bending one knee while keeping the other leg extended for balance and strength.
4. Listen to your body!
Your garden isn’t going anywhere, but a back injury will definitely side-line you. If you feel tightness or a “twinge,” stop and take a walk – your garden isn’t going anywhere, but if you give yourself a back injury then neither are you! If you are feeling tight and stiff in those muscles after a buy gardening session, Liesa our massage therapist can help! BOOK IN NOW.
Take the Next Step
If you’re dealing with muscle, joint, or nerve pain that’s impacting your quality of life, chiropractic care, massage or shockwave could be the answer — whether that means short-term relief or lasting improvements, our care could help. If you are unsure which may be best for you, please feel free to contact us.
BOOK IN NOW. to start feeling better, move more freely, and support your body’s natural healing. We’ll work with you to identify any underlying issues and give you the tools to maintain your health.
Clinics in Stafford & Newport
We can help you to achieve better health. Our team of experienced chiropractors and massage therapists are ready to help you. We look forward to seeing you.
Your team at Pure Health Chiropractic
Article by Ethan Mallett
Content and Media Manager