The symptoms of arthritis in the knee can include joint pain when undertaking activity, swelling, stiffness and night pain. This affects people who have a history of arthritis in their family, and general wear of the knee joints associated with age. Sometimes it can occur at the site of a previous knee injury. Gardening can be rewarding and provides a distraction from the osteoarthritis knee pain.

Can I Garden With Osteoarthritis of the Knee?

The answer is yes provided you follow some simple advice and tips. For example, avoid constant repetitive movements and take regular breaks. Try to undertake tasks for no more than 20 minutes to avoid putting undue strain on your knees. Consider paving your lawn to prevent the need for constant mowing and plant shrubs, flowers and trees in raised beds to ensure easy access. If you have a hedge, then consider swapping it for a fence which is much more low maintenance. Besides, you can pay someone to paint the fence after which it needs very little attention. Consider using your window sill or a small greenhouse to grow herbs and houseplants. You can even grow plants to make your own salads such as lettuce and pea shoots.

Benfits of Gardening in Improving Your Condition

Gardening can be an absorbing and fruitful hobby which can give many hours of enjoyment and pleasure. As such, it can improve your health and well-being. Most doctors will advise that general light exercise of the knees help the condition by keeping the joints moving and improves the pain. After the work of creating a low maintenance garden, you can sit back and enjoy the fruits of your labour. You can enjoy the physical sight of flowers and shrubs in bloom and enjoy some delicious home-produced vegetables, salad, fruit and cut flowers.

So enjoy your gardening but make sure you take it easy.