Listening to a Chiropractor's Advice on Gardening

By Brandi Swieter

March is often the ideal time to start gardening because the colder months are coming to a close and spring is officially making its debut. People typically start with indoor planting and then transfer their flowers and vegetables to the garden once spring fully arrives in April. Gardening needs far more caution than just watching the weather because it can take a toll on the body if people aren’t careful. Chiropractors have some helpful advice when it comes to gardening that can prevent back pain from setting in and stirring up trouble.

Take Regular Breaks

Gardening may not seem like such a tough task, but it can actually prove quite the workout. Taking regular breaks is necessary during any activity, ensuring the body has time to recuperate between tasks so it does not get pushed to the point of exhaustion. Do some work for a little while, maybe 15 or 20 minutes, and take a 5-minute break. Repeat a few times or head inside and continue on with some more work later.

Vary Your Gardening Activities

Do not sit in one place pulling weeds for hours. It’s best to vary the gardening activities so the act does not put strain on one part of the body. Pull weeds for a while, then rake some dirt, followed by planting a few seeds. Rotate through these chores until they’re finished instead of completing one and then the next.

Use Easy-Grip Tools

Many tools are hard to hold and make the task more difficult to accomplish. Find easy-grip tools that do not put any strain on the hands or arms, which can lead to strain in the neck and shoulders. Plenty of these options exist, often containing extra padding on the handle. It is also important to wear gloves for improved grip and to keep the pain at bay.

Wear Sturdy Shoes

Too many gardeners head outside in old ratty shoes thinking about saving their good shoes for indoors. This practice is not recommended; many old pairs of shoes provide far less comfort and padding than is needed. Sturdy, comfortable shoes should always be worn no matter what type of activity is being done. They help support the feet and legs, which in turn support the rest of the body, so sturdiness is necessary for keeping pain from setting in.

It’s always best to take a doctor’s advice, and that includes while performing an activity such as gardening. Anyone who follows these tips and still feels as though they need to see a chiropractor can visit The Joint Chiropractic during their extended walk-in hours for a consultation. Removing joint restrictions and easing pain is their specialty.

To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Tucson, Ariz.

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