Good Body Mechanics with Gardening!
Spring is finally here, which means the beginning of garden season!! Working in the garden can be both physically and mentally therapeutic. For the average 150 lb. person, you can burn anywhere between 204-340 calories per hour while at the same time mentally unwinding.
It is important to keep proper body mechanics in mind while perform gardening tasks, such as raking, pulling weeds, lifting heavy bags of soil, etc. Having good body mechanics will decrease the risk of injury.
Here are some tips to help limit that risk.
- Take 5-10 minutes before and after you garden to warm up the muscles and stretch. Stretch the major muscle groups such as hamstrings, quadriceps, back and shoulders.
- Change your body positions frequently and take breaks.
- Avoid repetitive bending and twisting which could increase strain on your muscles and joints.
- Get close to your task and use a pad if kneeling.
- When lifting, bend at the knees leading back with your hips and pull your belly button to your spine to decrease overuse of back muscles.
- Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
Take time for your self and enjoy spending the time outside. Happy Planting!!
Kerra Pietsch, LPTA, CFNC
Andover Physical Therapy
PTC_therapy April 27th, 2016
Posted In: General