Common Fall Yard Work Injuries and How Massage Can Help

As the leaves start to turn and fall, many of us head outside to tackle yard work. Whether it's raking leaves, pruning shrubs, or planting fall bulbs, these activities can lead to some surprisingly common injuries. At Oasis Massage, we see many clients who come in with aches and pains from seasonal chores. Fortunately, massage therapy can offer both relief and preventive care.

Common Fall Yard Work Injuries:

1. Lower Back Strain: Raking leaves or lifting heavy bags can place undue strain on your lower back, especially if you’re using improper form.
2. Shoulder and Neck Pain: Activities like pruning or cleaning gutters often involve reaching overhead, which can cause tension and discomfort in your shoulders and neck.
3. Knee Pain: Kneeling to plant fall bulbs or clean up flower beds can put stress on your knees, leading to pain or exacerbating existing conditions like arthritis.
4. Tendonitis (Elbow/Forearm): Repetitive movements, such as raking or using a leaf blower, can cause overuse injuries like tendonitis, particularly in the elbows and forearms.

How Massage Can Help:
Massage therapy can be incredibly effective in alleviating pain and stiffness from these types of injuries. Techniques like deep tissue massage and myofascial release target tight, overworked muscles, while trigger point therapy helps release knots in areas like the lower back and shoulders.

At Oasis Massage, we often incorporate hot stone therapy during colder months. The warmth from the stones penetrates deep into the muscles, improving circulation and relieving tension, which is particularly soothing after strenuous yard work.

Tips for Safe Yard Work:

• Lift with Your Legs: When moving heavy bags or tools, always bend at the knees, not your back, and use your leg muscles to lift.
• Switch Sides: Avoid repetitive stress by switching sides when raking or sweeping.
• Take Breaks: Yard work can be deceptively exhausting. Take short breaks to stretch and avoid overexertion.
• Use Kneepads: If you’re kneeling, protect your knees by wearing kneepads or using a cushioned surface.

​By combining proper yard work techniques with regular massage therapy, you can maintain a pain-free fall season.