It’s said the secret to a healthy garden is a healthy gardener. Gardening is an active pursuit that, while beneficial, can also cause muscle strain to the lower back, shoulders, knees, and arms, especially if you’re out of shape from a winter of inactivity. To get the most from your gardening season, physiotherapists recommend the following. To reduce strain, keep your tools close to your body and your back straight. When weeding, don’t bend at the waist. Instead, squat or kneel on a kneeling pad. When lifting or carrying, know your limits, and bend your knees, not your back. When digging or shoveling, keep your back straight, bend your knees, and avoid twisting. Take frequent breaks, spread tasks over a period of time, and allow yourself to recover between projects. Remember to stay hydrated. For more healthy gardening tips, consult your physiotherapist.

Doug Treloar, Physiotherapist, PhysioFirstClinic.ca