Gardening
& Arthritis
If
you’ve always loved the pleasures of tending your own
garden -- fragrant flowers or the taste of a really fresh
tomato -- you don’t have to give them up just because
arthritis has come into the picture. In fact, gardening
is a great activity for maintaining joint flexibility,
bone density, range of motion and quality of life.
Researchers at the University of Arkansas found that
gardening ranks as high as weight training for
strengthening bones.
A few
simple modifications can help you keep your garden
growing with ease.
Getting
Started
As with any activity, be sure to consult your doctor or
physical therapist for any precautions you should take.
An occupational therapist can help advise you about
special aids or adaptive tools. For example, wearing
braces can help provide support and rest to weak or sore
joints.
Plan to
garden during the times of day when you feel best; for
example, wait until afternoon if you have morning
stiffness. That way you’ll be able to work more easily
and will enjoy it more than if you’re stiff or sore.
Before you begin work in your garden each time, warm up
your joints and muscles with a brief walk or some
stretching first. This will get your body ready for the
activity and will help prevent injuries.
Arranging Your Garden
With creativity and advance planning, you can create a
garden that suits your needs. Assess your abilities and
arrange your garden in a way that makes your tasks
easier and conserves your energy. For example, make sure
your garden has a nearby water source so you don’t
have to carry watering cans or hoses far. Keep a storage
area or tool shed close to your garden so you don’t
waste energy hauling your tools back and forth.
Moving the Right Way
As you garden, be careful not to put undue stress on
your joints. Use tools such as hoes or rakes that have
long handles so you avoid bending or stooping. Wrap the
handles with foam padding or electrical tape so they
will be easier to grip. If you have to work close to the
ground, place only one knee on the ground and keep your
back straight, or use a stool. If you normally use a
cane or walker, take them with you in the garden to
prevent trips or falls on uneven ground.
Choosing the Right Products
The equipment you use and the plants you work with can
make a big difference in how enjoyable your gardening
time is. Keep the following tips in mind when you’re
in the gardening supply store.
Low
Maintenance Plants
- Choose
young plants so you can avoid dealing with
tiny seeds.
- Plant
shrubs or perennials that bloom every year
so you don’t have to replant each time.
- Ask
about plants that require little care,
such as ones that don’t need regular
pruning.
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Helpful
Tools
Wear
a carpenter’s apron with several pockets
for carrying frequently-used tools.
Enlarge
tool handles with electrical tape or foam
padding from the hardware store.
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Easy
Ways to Water
- Use
sprinklers instead of large watering cans.
- Consider
purchasing a hose caddy to store your
garden hose. You can wheel the caddy to
your work area and unroll the hose as you
need it.
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House
and Home
Barrier-Free
Home
10 Simple
Household Solutions
Feng
Shui 101
Lawn
and Garden
Gardening
& Arthritis
Give Your Green Thumb a Rest
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ABCs of Gardening
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