The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) recommends green-fingered individuals take good care of their garden tools in order to avoid getting injured outdoors.
For instance, the organisation underlined the importance of having a hedge trimmer serviced before using it for the first time in a season.
Research conducted by the AAOS indicated that – in 2010 – 41,200 people were hurt when working in the garden in the US alone.
Orthopaedic surgeon and AAOS spokesman Christopher Doumas asserted that it is not too difficult to prevent this kind of thing from happening.
"Whether you're an expert gardener or first-timer, carefully planning your gardening project from beginning to end is important," he said.
"Many gardening injuries such as back strains or cuts from sharp tools can be prevented if the proper planning and safety guidelines are put into action," the expert continued.
This is likely to apply to more Brits than usual in 2012, as a survey conducted by HSBC indicated people in this country expect to spend more on garden equipment than they usually would.
The banking firm attributed this trend to the growing desire for Brits to take part in celebratory activities relating to the forthcoming Queen's Jubilee and the London Olympic Games.
Nonetheless, it is important to step out of the sun when it is excessively hot – and the AAOS suggests getting to work outdoors early in the morning or late in the afternoon over summer in order to avoid peak temperatures.
More specific concerns – such as knee injuries – can also be avoided by using a stool for repetitive tasks that involve an individual bending their back or knees, as this will help to ease the strain.
In the summer heat, keeping hydrated cannot be underestimated, especially if a sweat is being worked up throughout the day.
