Springing into Step – Guarding your back and joints during gardening

The staff at Family Chiropractic and Spinal Health Center in Ramsey recommends gardening as an opportunity to find balance in your life both mentally and physically. It is an activity that can be done individually or as a family project that will bring you a renewed sense of peace.

Bergen County in spring is a favorite time for many of its residents. Local pride in maintaining one’s yard is a pastime that has grown in popularity. The food movement has renewed interest in local and organic vegetables and Americans everywhere are composting. Don’t let you back and joint pain prevent you from the benefits of working this pleasurable work-out into your life.

There are many ways you can protect yourself and you can start by asking Dr. Abahi how you should move properly to reduce strains for your particular concerns. Just like a plant takes time to bloom, so do you. Plant your seeds now – there are many steps you can take before you even get outside such as dressing properly, applying sunscreen and insect repellant. Be sure you are wearing appropriate footwear and check to make sure the ground is not wet so you avoid slip and falls. Walking and mild stretching can begin before the first robin appears, and you can schedule check-ups ahead and ask your healthcare provider if your vaccinations are up-to- date.

Inventory your tools and reduce the risks by using wheelbarrows and long-handled tools. Check to see if your mower is the correct height and limit the time you spend on your knees. Use new knee pads and stools and never work in the yard without gloves. Your ability to garden for increased time periods will grow like your plants but stop whenever you feel pain. Protect your eyes with goggles and practice proper posture. Remember to breathe properly and listen to nature and before long you will be following the old adage to “Stop and smell the flowers!”