Spring comes earlier in the south and for many it means time to get outdoors and begin working in the yard and garden.
Time for many to begin to put up their coats and winter clothes and get excited about spending more time outdoors.
More sun and less rain with extended daylight is the perfect recipe for getting outside and working in the yard and garden. Time to pull weeds and begin the process of adding seasonal color to spruce up the garden. Many also take this time to add mulch, soil and even new sod to begin the spring beatification of their beloved yards.
The warmer spring weather and the return to yard work comes as a relief to many as the increased time outdoors allows for more time to get the outside curb appeal back to tip top shape.
However, earning the proverbial “Green Thumb” often comes with increased work and using muscles that many times just don’t get used.
Injuries are very common during spring and the return to working in and around the house. The most common injury is the back with much of the pain associated with the lower back. A few hours of yard work can lead to days or longer of severe pain in the back, arms, legs, and other areas.
Here are some tips for avoiding injuries when returning to the outdoor DIY activities this spring:
–Stretch and warm up prior to getting started. This helps get the muscles ready for the upcoming activity.
–Minimize repetitive activities. Doing the same motion continuously can increase the likelihood of pain and injury.
–Let the tools do the work and not your hands. Maximize the benefits of the tools and put them to work.
–Use protective gear. Utilize gloves and a back brace if heavy lifting is involved.
–Take numerous breaks. Working without prolonged breaks often leads to mistakes and injuries.
–Seek Help. Know your limits and ask for help when necessary.
Dr Aust and staff wish everyone an enjoyable return to the outdoors this spring. We hope everyone gets their outdoor projects done without incident.
Should an injury happen, we are here to help. With offices in Slidell, Metairie, and Thibodaux we have got you covered.
“We believe most patients can achieve optimal pain management with little to no chronic oral opioids, and use interventions to reduce or eliminate oral opioid use”.
Dr. Tod Aust