Advice for Gardening with Comfort
As the weather warms up and spring is in full bloom, many of us enjoy spending time in our gardens. Gardening can be a great way to get some exercise while also providing a sense of accomplishment as we watch our plants grow.
However, gardening can also lead to aches and pains due to the physical nature of the activity. Fortunately, physical therapy can help alleviate these aches and pains, so that you can continue enjoying your garden without any pain or injury.
Read on for more spring gardening tips for avoiding aches and pains, and don’t hesitate to consult with a member of our team if an injury does develop. Feel free to reach out at (732) 812-5200 to schedule an appointment with one of our movement professionals.
How Can a Physical Therapist Provide Gardening Advice?
Physical therapists are experts in movement and understand how different activities affect the body. They are trained to evaluate your individual needs and develop a personalized treatment plan that will help you reach your goals. In terms of gardening, physical therapists can provide tips and techniques on how to prevent pain and avoid injury while tending to your garden.
For example, warm-up stretches are key for enhancing your gardening enjoyment. Start with a few gentle, slow neck and shoulder rolls before beginning any strenuous activity in the garden. Breathe into the muscles as you stretch them out for maximum benefit.
Additionally, it’s important to change positions often while gardening, in order to avoid stiffness or cramping in any one area of your body. If you’re moving heavy materials or equipment around the garden, use a garden cart or wheelbarrow instead of lifting it yourself - this will reduce strain on your back muscles. If you do need to lift heavy items, make sure you are doing so with your legs (as opposed to your back), in order to avoid back injury.
How Can a Physical Therapist Provide Relief from Pain or Injury?
In addition to these tips for preventing pain while gardening, there are also several physical therapy modalities that can help alleviate existing aches and pains associated with gardening activities. For instance, massage therapy helps relax tight muscles that may have been strained during certain activities, such as digging or weeding.
Heat therapy is another option for relieving muscle tension. Applying heat directly over sore areas helps increase blood flow, which in turn reduces inflammation and promotes healing. Stretching or strengthening exercises may also be recommended by a physical therapist, depending on what type of pain you’re experiencing. These exercises will help improve mobility and flexibility, so that you can continue enjoying your garden without any additional discomfort!
Here to Help You Live Life Pain-Free
At ProFysio Physical Therapy, we understand how important it is for our patients to stay active while taking care of their bodies at the same time. We offer comprehensive evaluations with experienced physical therapists who have extensive knowledge in helping patients manage their aches and pains so they can continue doing the activities you love.
If you’ve noticed any aches or pains developing from tending to your garden this spring season, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with us today. Give us a call at (732) 812-5200 to get started.