Gardening and Back Pain: Practical Tips from a Birmingham Chiropractor
Warmer weather means many of us are finally getting back into the garden. But all that bending, digging, mowing and lifting can put real pressure on your back — and back pain is one of the most common reasons people visit us at Zest Chiropractic in Moseley, Birmingham.
Here are some practical tips to help you be more mindful of your posture and technique while you’re out there this season.
Choose the right tools
Use lightweight, ergonomically designed tools suited to the task. The right tool for the job makes a real difference to how your body moves.
Alternate between tasks
Switch between light and heavy jobs as you go rather than doing everything in one stretch. This gives different muscle groups a chance to rest.
Change your position regularly
Avoid staying in one posture for too long. Take regular breaks, stand up and move around — your back will thank you for it.
Dig with your spine in mind
When digging, try to maintain the natural curve in your lower back rather than rounding forward.
Break up heavy loads
Split large loads into smaller ones. If you have a wheelbarrow, use it — that’s what it’s there for.
Lift carefully
Bend your knees when picking things up, keep the load close to your body, and avoid twisting while you’re lifting or carrying.
Kneel, don’t stoop
When planting or weeding at ground level, use a kneeling pad rather than bending over for long periods.
Use your hover mower correctly
Push it forwards and backwards in straight lines rather than swinging it side to side in an arc.
Wind down gradually
After a session in the garden, a warm bath or shower can help your muscles relax. Try to keep moving gently in the evening rather than sitting still for hours.
Still feeling it after gardening?
If you experience back discomfort or strain after gardening that hasn’t eased within 24 hours, it’s worth getting it checked out. Chiropractors are trained to assess and work with musculoskeletal problems affecting the back, muscles and joints. You can read more about the conditions we treat on our dedicated page.
Lisa Archer at Zest Chiropractic in Moseley sees patients from across Birmingham and the surrounding area. To find out whether chiropractic may be suitable for you, call us on 07736 030590 or book an appointment online.