Spine Friendly Gardening Tips

Gardening can be a fun hobby, healthy activity, and helps get you out of the house after a long winter! There are a few things to keep in mind while getting out into the garden to help avoid back pain. After being held in the house all winter your back will thank you if you stretch, especially in the direction of any activity you will be doing that day. Before you get started, make sure your tools are sharpened. As you get started with the real work, use shorter strokes with your tools and take a few extra breaks until you get back into the swing of things. It’s a good idea to switch positions or take a break every 20-30 minutes. If you are going to be down near the ground for a long time, sit on a stool! Extreme bending for 2 hours isn’t great for even a “good” spine. Keep a good posture as often as possible, and remember that bending and twisting at the same time is a bad for your spine. When lifting, keep heavier objects close to your body, and tighten up your abs to take pressure off of your spine. Use a wheelbarrow or get some help if you are unsure or think there is a risk of injury. If you get persistent low back or neck pain after tilling the garden, then it is a good idea to get the spine checked out! Call our office for an appointment at 216-938-7889 or check us out on our website infieldchiropracticclinic.com. We are located in downtown Euclid, feel free to stop by and check us out!

Michael Lozitsky D.C.