Back pain in the garden
We all love our gardens, they can be a great place to unwind and relax. However, when you have back pain whilst working in the garden, this can really put a dampener on enjoying the garden.
As a chiropractor, I understand the importance of maintaining good posture and reducing strain on the back, especially during activities like gardening. Here’s an article that reviews some of the best gardening tools designed to help minimise back stress, along with suggestions on where to buy them online in the UK.
The Best Gardening Tools for Back Health
Gardening can be a therapeutic and enjoyable hobby, but it can also be tough on your back. To help you maintain your garden without aches and pains, I’ve compiled a list of ergonomic gardening tools that are chiropractor-approved. These tools are designed to keep you upright and reduce the need for bending, thus protecting your back.
1. Easi-Grip Long Handled Garden Trowel
Positives: The long handle allows for gardening without the need to bend over, reducing strain on the back. The ergonomic grip is designed to keep the hand and wrist at a natural angle, which can prevent discomfort.
Negatives: May not be suitable for very heavy digging due to the longer handle which can reduce leverage.
Where to Buy: Available at Complete Care Shop.
2. Roamwild Multi-Digger Garden Fork
Positives: Features a unique ‘auto-dig’ technology that makes digging easier, thus reducing back strain. The lightweight design and padded handle add to the comfort.
Negatives: The cost is higher than traditional forks, but the benefits for back health may justify the investment.
Where to Buy: Find it on Expert Reviews
3. Back Saving Tool Grip
Positives: This attachment can be added to any long-handled tool to reduce the need for bending. It’s a simple yet effective way to modify existing tools for better back health.
Negatives: It requires a separate purchase for each tool you wish to adapt.
Where to Buy: Thrive offers this handy accessory.
4. Wolf-Garten Multi-Change System
Positives: A versatile system where you can attach various tool heads to the same handle. This reduces the number of tools needed and the strain on your back.
Negatives: The initial setup can be more expensive, and the system does not include a spade or fork.
Where to Buy: Wolf Garten provides a range of options.
5. Raised Garden Bed
Positives: Elevates the gardening space to reduce bending and kneeling. Great for individuals with limited mobility or chronic back pain.
Negatives: Requires assembly and more space than traditional garden beds.
Where to Buy: Options available at Bob Vila.
6. Gardening Folding Seat With Storage
Positives: Allows you to sit while gardening, reducing strain on the back and knees.
The built-in storage is convenient for keeping tools close at hand.
Negatives: Not as mobile as some other tools, so it may not be suitable for larger gardens.
Where to Buy: Amazon has a variety of gardening seats.
7. Ergonomic Garden Secateurs
Positives: Designed with an auto-rotating handle to reduce wrist strain, these secateurs are ideal for those with arthritis or limited hand strength.
Negatives: May not be as powerful as traditional secateurs for cutting through very thick branches.
Where to Buy: Amazon UK offers a selection of ergonomic secateurs.
8. Kneelo® Kneeler
Positives: Made with memory foam, this kneeler provides excellent support and comfort for your knees and back when planting or weeding at ground level.
Negatives: It’s an additional item to carry around unless you have a garden tote.
Where to Buy: Check out options at Burgon & Ball.
9. Telescopic Weeder
Positives: Allows you to weed without bending or kneeling, with an extendable handle to suit your height.
Negatives: The telescopic mechanism may require maintenance to keep it functioning smoothly.
Where to Buy: Gardener’s Supply Company has a range of weeders.
10. Ergonomic Watering Can
Positives: Features a balanced design to reduce wrist and back strain when watering. The long spout allows for easy reach of plants.
Negatives: May have a smaller capacity than traditional watering cans, requiring more frequent refills.
Where to Buy: Look for ergonomic designs at your local garden centre or online retailers.
Remember, while these tools can help reduce the risk of back pain, it’s also important to practice proper lifting techniques and take regular breaks. Happy gardening!
