April showers bring May flowers, but what can May flowers bring? That’s right – possible back pain. As springtime gets underway, we head outside into the warm weather and begin the spring clean in our garden. We are invigorated by the warmth and start tackling the garden in a Gung-ho style. Although gardening can provide a great workout, with all the bending, twisting, reaching, and pulling, your body may not be ready for exercise of the garden variety.
Stretch for Success
To enjoy gardening fully, stretching your muscles before reaching for your gardening tools is important. The back, upper legs, shoulders, and wrists are all major muscle groups affected when using your green thumb.
“A warm-up and cool-down period are as important in gardening as it is for any other physical activity,” said Dr. Scott Bautch of the American Chiropractic Association’s (ACA) Council on Occupational Health. “Performing simple stretches during these periods will help alleviate injuries, pain, and stiffness.”
Following these simple stretches will help to alleviate muscle pain after a day spent in your garden.
Best Garden Variety Stretches
- Before stretching for any activity, breath in and out slowly and rhythmically; do not bounce or jerk your body, and stretch as far and as comfortably as you can. Don’t follow – “the no pain, no gain rule.” Stretching should not be painful.
One exercise is sitting and propping your heel on a stool or step, keeping the knees straight. Lean forward until you feel a stretch in the back of the thigh or the hamstring muscle. Hold this position for 15 seconds. Do this once more and repeat with the other leg. - Next, stand up, balance yourself, and grab the front of your ankle from behind. Pull your heel towards your buttocks and hold the position for 15 seconds. Do this again and repeat with the other leg.
- Then, while standing, weave your fingers above your head with your palms up. Lean to one side for 10 seconds, then to the other. Repeat this stretch three times.
- Finally, do the “Hug, your best friend.” Wrap your arms around yourself and rotate to one side, stretching as far as you can comfortably go. Hold for 10 seconds and reverse. Repeat two or three times.
Most importantly, be aware of your body technique, body form, and correct posture while gardening. Kneel, don’t bend, and alternate your stance and movements as often as possible to keep the muscles and body balanced.
Reap Success!
Like a healthy garden, a healthy body takes preparation and loving care. So schedule a spinal check-up and address any weeds that may take root in your most valuable asset, your health.
For Your Health,
Dr. Steven M. Gillis
