Around this time, as the spring days continue to get longer, warmer and more pleasant, gardeners are starting to consider what to put in the flower beds this year, and when to begin planting, potting, and pruning.
However, the typical hunched position of the average gardener may not be comfortable for an extended period of time for people with arthritis. While gardeners may want to spend hours in the garden, individuals with arthritis should consider taking breaks every 45 minutes to an hour to rest, relax, and stay hydrated.
It’s also important to evaluate your gardening tools and determine if they are contributing to your arthritis pain. Tools with large grips and ergonomically designed handles, such as the
Radius® PRO Transplanter and
Fiskars® PowerGear® Bypass Pruner, can help ease the pain of garden work.
Fiskars® UpRoot® Weed & Root Remover or Gator Grabber™ can offer a helping hand when it comes to chores like weeding or picking up leaves around the yard.
Another measure that may help is to elevate the garden. With help from friends and family, you can create a raised flower bed, which requires less bending and stress on your back and legs while also helping to keep garden pests out.
So when preparing to go to work in the garden this spring, be sure to keep the following tips in mind:
- Drink plenty of water and stay hydrated
- Consider using small containers than can be refilled often instead of one large watering bucket or can
- A lightweight coiled hose is also a great substitute
- Instead of replacing some of your favorite garden tools, try wrapping pipe insulator tightly around the handles for a thicker grip and easier use
- Knee pads are great for protecting your knees in the garden and should be considered anytime you have to kneel
Looking for more ways to spend time in your garden?
Click here to see our step-by-step video on how to make your own planter.
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