Yard Work Tips

‘Tis the season for yard work, and that means LOTS of overuse injuries! We see this every year as we come out of hibernation from the winter months to the active time. And without some preparation and wise body mechanics - or ergonomics - you may find yourself feeling sore, stuck, or worse. Here are 10 tips for working smarter, not harder!

1. When mowing, maintain a steady pace while pushing the mower and use your whole body to propel it forward, not just your arms.

2. When weeding and gardening, kneel on a foam pad or use an appropriate garden tool to reduce strain on your knees and back.

3. When trimming hedges, keep your elbows close to your body. Avoid overreaching.

4. When lifting, bend at the knees and keep your back straight. Avoid twisting while lifting. Square your core up with what you’re lifting and PIVOT (Friends reference) rather than twist. Make your legs do the work, not your back.

5. Choose tools with ergonomic designs, such as those with padded handles, adjustable lengths, and lightweight materials. Consider tools specifically designed for yard work, like ergonomic rakes, hoes, and shovels.

6. Wear supportive shoes with good arch support. (Talk to our doctors about custom made orthotics!)

7. Stand up straight when raking or mowing.

8. Vary tasks and positions to avoid repetitive strain. Switch back and forth between tasks.

9. Take breaks to prevent strain and injury.

10. Bring a water bottle outside with you so you stay well hydrated out there.

And of course, if you do overdo it, come on in and let us fix you up!

Yours for better health... Persephone Agricola, Nutritionist & Yoga Teacher and James Gray, D.C.