Now that the spring is finally here, we all like to spend more time outside. Some of us like to work in the garden. Gardening is a great form of exercise, but it can also leave you with a painful backache. Here are some tips on how to prevent back pain and injury:
- Use correct posture and form.
- Warm up before you garden with a 10-minute walk.
- Make sure all of your movements are smooth and steady.
- Keep your abdominal muscles taut.
- Lift with your legs (never your back).
- Don’t twist your back while digging.
- Breathe regularly. Exhale when you lift, and inhale as you lower a heavy load
In case you do feel some aches and pine, try over the counter NSAID like Advil and Aleve or Tylenol if you are not allergic, icy hot patches also work great. If the pain persists, please remember to see your physician.