Before you give in to planting mania this summer, take a few minutes to consider your back. Pulling weeds, raking a lawn or digging a hole can strain the back in painful ways. Frequent squatting and kneeling can also do harm. In fact, any movement that requires lifting, twisting or turning – carrying bags of soil or fertiliser – can injure back muscles.
Take action: Avoid squatting and bending as much as possible. Instead of bending over to work in the garden, kneel on a soft cushion. Use a wheelbarrow for hauling heavy objects. But most importantly, strengthen your stomach muscles. Here are specific exercises that you can do.
Visit our Back Centre for more on back care.