JAMESTOWN, N.D. (NewsDakota.com) – More than 30 million Americans will find themselves at an emergency room due to injuries sustained while completing yard work.
Injuries that are quite common while doing yard work range from overexertion and dehydration to cuts and amputations from using all kinds of power equipment.
Dr. Nick Schmidt with Sanford Health says there are a variety of things you can hurt while completing your yard work.
Because so many people are injured completing yard work, Dr. Schmidt says people can focus on preventative measures such as working during cooler parts of the day and stretching beforehand. Another item to help with safety is what you’re wearing when working outside.
The size of the equipment or tools you’re using can also factor into safe practices such as the popular leaf clearing rake.
Once the work is complete, Dr. Schmidt says to replenish fluids and do a cool down, such as taking a five minute walk when you’re done. He added you can also ice down sore joints and muscles to alleviate any discomfort.
Listen to a full Let’s Talk About It with Dr. Nick Schmidt below: