Spring has finally arrived (as per the calendar), but the temperatures would make you think it is summer. Read on for some helpful hints so you can enjoy the fruits of your labour.

Before you venture out, no self-respecting gardener would do so without the helpful advice of the Beach Garden Society.  While they can help you with your flowers and planting, we can help alleviate your pain.

ARE YOU EXPERIENCING PAIN IN?
Neck and Shoulders
This is from vigorously using a shovel or rake to break up the ground and clean the winter waste.
To help decrease the area of tension, roll your shoulders forwards and backwards to loosen up the area. You can prepare by putting heat (10-minutes) on the affected area, stretch it out, then ice (3-minutes) afterwards.

Arms
This area can be chronically sore from gripping a rake or shovel with a firm grip. The areas generally affected are your elbows (inside and outside).
This area is best treated with ice for 20-minutes (wrapped in a towel first), then some light stretching and a forward/backward motion of your wrist, while keeping your arm straight.

Low Back
This area can be chronic from poor posture, being in a stooped position, or from improper sleeping position.
Using a Garden Kneeler (www.leevalley.com), helps minimize back fatigue
Doing bouncing exercises can help loosen up the areas
Ice (see above) the area will help decrease any inflammation that builds up

Hamstrings
This area could affect walking and from crossing your legs for extended periods of time.
Downward dog (yoga) is an effective exercise to stretch this area. Try grasping the area and vigorously shaking the muscle belly to allow increased blood flow and decrease lactic acid build-up.

SUGGESTIONS:
Enjoy the fresh air and the pride of making your garden oasis come true.
If all this advice doesn’t convince you, you can always use the services of a professional landscaper and enjoy the fruits of their labour.

See your doctor if the pain persists or doesn’t go away within a day or two.
See your therapist if treatment is recommended.