Yard Work & Gardening: Alleviate Muscle Pain this Spring

Spring is in bloom in Nanaimo, and everyone is itching to get outdoors and dig into yard work. Unfortunately, doing so can lead to a great deal of back pain and muscle pain. To help you avoid or minimize this pain, our team at Woodgrove Pines Wellness Clinic would like to share a few tips.

Before Gardening

• Be sure you have supportive shoes. If you don’t, you risk unnecessary strain on your back.
• Drink some water. Fueling your muscles and the rest of your body can go a long way in preventing injuries and fatigue.
• Plan your yard work in the cooler parts of the day. Doing it during the hottest points can lead to several issues, including fatigue and dehydration, both of which can lead to muscle injuries.
• Stretch your body. While you don’t have to do an hour-long stretching routine, you do need to loosen up your muscles. This includes your back, legs, neck, and shoulders.

During Gardening

• Keep your water handy. You will be sweating out hydration the whole time you are working, so be sure to replenish constantly.
• Remember proper lifting techniques. Never lift with your back, always use your legs instead.
• Take breaks. You might want to rush through it, but it is important to take regular breaks. Cool off, drink some water, and do a little stretching.
• Use the right equipment and support. Using incorrect equipment for a task can lead to more work and more risk of injury. Aim to always use the equipment made for your specific task. Also, use any necessary supportive devices. For example, if you are weeding your garden, use knee pads to minimize the pressure on your knees and spine. If necessary, consider using a device to help you maintain proper posture.

After Gardening

• Grab a nice, hot shower. This will help alleviate tension that might have built up.
• Drink some more water. You will need to replenish your body’s supply after a long day’s work.
• Stretch again. If possible, try a gentle yoga workout for a comprehensive stretch.
• Allow yourself time to rest. Use an ice pack or heating pad if you feel any soreness or back pain.
• Schedule a visit with your chiropractor. If the pain doesn’t go away after a couple of days, an injury might have occurred that needs chiropractic care.

Get Relief for Muscle and Back Pain in Nanaimo, BC

If yard work has left you in pain that rest doesn’t fix, it is time to visit our team at Woodgrove Pines Wellness Clinic. Schedule your appointment today by calling us at 250-390-2003.