Safegard Spring with Health Body Gardening Tips

 After a long week of work, many of us look forward to a restful weekend that might include a little work in the garden.  Fresh air, sunshine and nature in one setting can potentially turn this dream weekend into a week of pain as inactivity during the winter months make way for possible injury. The following are tips you can use throughout the rest of the spring and summer months to assure safety and wellness. 

1. Warm up with a brisk walk or light running moving your arms to loosen muscles and joints to help increase flexibility.

2. Do not do too much the first day! If you are a weekend gardener, pace yourself.

3. When weeding or working on low plants, kneel down or get on your hands and knees instead of bending over and twisting at the waist. If kneeling, use a cushion or knee pads for stabilization.

4. Use long handle tools to avoid bending while raking, shoveling and mowing.

5. Switch hands frequently while doing yard work for extended periods of time. Repetitive motion on one side for too long can lead to the injury.

6. Avoid repetitive bending and twisting.

7. Carry only manageable loads. Divide work up into smaller loads or get help.

8. Hold or carry objects close to your body to prevent back straining and maintain balance.

9. Avoid working in the sun for long periods of time. Keep yourself covered and wear at least SPF15 protection sunscreen.

10. STAY HYDRATED no matter the weather.

Following these simple tips can make your free time more pleasurable and allow you to enjoy the "fruits" of your labor. If you do experience pain or discomfort, take time to care for yourself. If home remedies of stretching and icing properly are ineffective, it is best to be evaluated by the proper health care professional to not only address any injury or concers but prevent further injury or damage. Enjoy the outdoors!

Dr. Sok

For more information go to www.yalich.com