Health Tip: Gardening Ergonomics - Picking The Right Tools

Main Category: Public Health
Article Date: 06 May 2010 - 16:00 PDT

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If you have ever twisted and stretched while kneeling in the flower bed, then you know that gardening can be physically challenging. Fortunately, a bounty of ergonomic tools are available to help gardening enthusiasts avoid aches and pains. "Ergonomic tools are designed around the gardener. They can significantly reduce discomfort and fatigue and reduce injuries," said Paula Kramer, PhD, chair and professor of occupational therapy at University of the Sciences in Philadelphia.

Ergonomic tools look radically different than normal gardening tools, but Dr. Kramer cautions that not all "ergonomic" tools are created equal. "Just because a tool says it is ergonomic doesn't mean it's ergonomic for you. Try the tool out - it must fit your needs and your body."

In preparation for spring, Dr. Kramer shares the key ergonomic tools and tool features designed to make gardening easier:

- One-Piece Construction: Trowels, weeders, and cultivators made from one piece of metal from the top to the bottom allow for less possibility of breakage in the tool.

- Padded Handles: Hand tools with fat, padded handles and textured non-slip grips allow for a tight grip under damp conditions. Tools with extendable handles help for reaching difficult areas and accommodate a person's height. These long-handled tools should have some flexibility, but not too much. Telescopic and pistol-grip handles require less energy and keep the body in proper alignment.

- Spring-Action: Sheers, pruners, and clippers with a spring-action, self-opening feature help to prevent strain on the muscles and joints, but they should be well-oiled to open and close easily.

- Modified Shaft: Rakes, hoes, and forks with a bend in the shaft make the upper part of the handle work in a more horizontal position than normal, enabling a person to have more upright posture and a fist grip at the end.

- Garden Caddy: Functional caddies can help protect your knees and back from strain and stooping with built in knee pads, a platform for sitting, and a vessel to easily transport tools, mulch, and heavy items.

Source
University of the Sciences in Philadelphia

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