The Dangers of Gardening: Can a Lawnmower Endanger Your Health?

According to the Ergonomics Society, active gardening caused 87,000 injuries in 2004.

Main culprits of pain:

1. Lawnmowers

2. Flowerpots

3. Pruners

4. Spades

5. Electric hedge trimmers

How do you maintain a beautiful garden and still protect your joints?

Just like any workout, warm up, stretch, and cool down. These are essential to protect your muscles from strain. Gardening engages all your muscles and it's important they all receive attention. Learn how to lift, dig, and pull correctly. Seed your knowledge and keep yourself safe the next time you "hit the dirt".

Our physical therapists here at 1st Colony Aquatic and Rehabilitation can teach you the "healthy how" of gardening. Here are a few "buds" of wisdom:

• Put your legs into it. When lifting and carrying, it's important to bend your knees and use your legs instead of your back.


• Keep it light and strong. Choose lightweight, long handle forks, spades and hoes.


• Choose the proper bed. Plant in raised beds, pots, and containers to avoid bending over.


• Hydrate and take a break. Drink lots of water and take time to rest once in awhile.

You can always visit us at First Colony Aquatic and Rehabilitation Center. We'll help you make that garden grow, the healthy way.

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