Hayes Hand Center Blog
Chattanooga, Tennessee
Friday, June 10, 2011
Tips to Prevent Injuries this Gardening Season
It's gardening season and gardeners everywhere are working in their yards and gardens. By following these tips, you can lessen your chances of having an injury and really enjoy the growing season.
1. Stretch and warm up before starting. Raking, weeding, digging and pruning can put a log stress on the hands and wrists. It's important to warm up with gentle stretching to the upper extremities just like you would for a vigorous workout.
2. Wear gloves. Protect your hands from bacteria and fungus in the soil. A small cut on your hand exposed to bacteria has the potential to become a major infection.
3. Keep hands and arms covered. This is particularly important in an area known for snakes, spiders, or rodents.
4. Take a break every hour or switch activities to give your muscles a break.
5. Store your tools to prevent accidents. Keep sharp tools out of the reach of children.
6. Do regular/periodic tool maintenance. This will reduce the physical effort required.
7. Use well designed tools. Tools with non-slip rubber or padded handles protect smaller joints.
So, now you know how to take care of yourself, get out in the yard/garden and enjoy yourself! But, remember, if you do have an injury, we are here to take care of you at Hayes Hand Center.
1. Stretch and warm up before starting. Raking, weeding, digging and pruning can put a log stress on the hands and wrists. It's important to warm up with gentle stretching to the upper extremities just like you would for a vigorous workout.
2. Wear gloves. Protect your hands from bacteria and fungus in the soil. A small cut on your hand exposed to bacteria has the potential to become a major infection.
3. Keep hands and arms covered. This is particularly important in an area known for snakes, spiders, or rodents.
4. Take a break every hour or switch activities to give your muscles a break.
5. Store your tools to prevent accidents. Keep sharp tools out of the reach of children.
6. Do regular/periodic tool maintenance. This will reduce the physical effort required.
7. Use well designed tools. Tools with non-slip rubber or padded handles protect smaller joints.
So, now you know how to take care of yourself, get out in the yard/garden and enjoy yourself! But, remember, if you do have an injury, we are here to take care of you at Hayes Hand Center.
posted by
The Plastic Surgery Group
at
7:50 AM
Hayes Hand Center Disclaimer: Hayes Hand Center offers hand surgery, arm surgery, and wrist surgery to patients in the Chattanooga, Tennessee area.
This website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be medical advice.
For more information about our hand surgery procedures,
please contact our experienced hand surgeon at Dr. Hayes Hand Center, to schedule your consultation.
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