Spring has most certainly sprung. Whilst the weather may still be a little changeable we are definitely seeing the sun sneaking through the clouds.
Of course, we should be out enjoying the sunshine and tending to our gardens. We would just like to remind our patients there is an increased risk for injury just by doing basic garden maintenance. In the past few years one of the biggest reasons behind garden injuries has been people injuring themselves whilst operating a pressure washer. The excitement of cleaning off the Winter dirt takes hold and we forget just how powerful they are leading to many types of strains and injuries.
There are a number of things to consider whilst gardening to prevent ongoing problems
- Time – limit each activity to ensure you are regularly changing position and giving each part of your body a break
- Regular maintenance – attending to your garden frequently and in short stints, rather than saving up lots of jobs to do in one day or over one weekend, will reduce the likelihood of injury or strain
- Lifting – a straight back and bent knees are imperative for helping to avoid injury, get a friend to help with anything too heavy
- Listen to your body – if you feel pain, stop!
So, whilst enjoying the longer, sunnier days remember to take care doing the most basic jobs.