Landscaping duties and services in the US cover a wide range, including lawn care, residential and commercial irrigation, landscape construction and design, and much more.
The industry is massive, earning over $99 billion in the year 2019 alone. That’s not surprising when you understand that the average American household spends about $503 on these activities per year. The landscaping industry is only growing, too.
This is all good news for you as a landscaping employee, but the job comes with some cautions. For example, many landscapers experience injuries, strain, and overexertion at some point in their careers.
Are you noticing signs of injury, such as joint pain? Or, are you looking for preventative tactics that allow you to stay safe while on the job?
Here, we highlight some of the most common issues and how to prevent or treat them. Keep reading!
Problem #1: Overexertion From Heavy Lifting
When you’re a landscaper, you’re dealing with a lot of equipment: lawnmowers, leaf vacuums, edgers, trenchers, and much more. Your landscaping duties also likely require you to lift and maneuver these things often, especially during transportation to and from a job site.
Lifting heavy objects repetitively or incorrectly can strain the back muscles and ligaments, causing mild to severe back pain and discomfort. Continuous strain on an already-weaker spine can even cause muscle spasms. In worst cases, you may experience bulging or ruptured discs, which eliminate the necessary cushioning in the spine.
Solution: Know the Proper Lifting Techniques
One of the best ways to prevent these back injuries is to lift objects correctly.
At all times, lift objects with the strength of your legs, not the back, bending at the knees. Keep your back lengthened and as straight as possible, taking care to not twist as you lift.
Keep the object close to you, avoid reaching, and always lift with a partner whenever possible.
Problem #2: Joint Pain From Bending and Kneeling
Knee pain is another common complaint of landscapers, as they’re almost constantly bending and kneeling as they work. These actions can also have adverse effects on the back.
There could be several reasons this motion causes you pain—not warming up; wearing bad shoes; squatting continuously throughout the day. The list goes on, and depends on the person.
Solution: Proper Protective Equipment
One way to help manage pain in the joints from bending and kneeling is by investing in protective equipment, such as knee braces and/or back braces, as well as knee cushions for kneeling.
Garden kneelers are an option, and provide a cushioned bench for gardeners to use when they must get close to the ground.
Another consideration would be custom orthotics, which can help solve a slew of problems, including knee and back pain, sciatica, leg length discrepancies, and more.
Make sure to talk to your doctor or chiropractor first if you have any questions!
Part of Your Landscaping Duties Require Physical Fitness
There’s no going around it: you can’t perform as well on the job if you’re dealing with pain, strain, or injuries.
If you become unable to work due to bad practices while on the job, you’ll soon be caught in a predicament. Your best bet is staying safe by practicing proper lifting techniques and wearing or using protective equipment designed to keep you well. These practices are all part of your landscaping duties.
For more preventative care, or treatment for current pain, we at Amazing Life Chiropractic and Wellness would love to help.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment with our talented staff and see if we can help you work smarter—not harder!