Latest news with #backpain
Daily Mail
2 days ago
- Health
- Daily Mail
I'm a spinal doctor - here are the simple daily habits I follow to stay back-pain free
A leading spine surgeon has revealed the simple daily habits he follows to protect his spine—and what to do if you're one of the millions who suffers from back pain. Dr Colin Natalia, a consultant at The Princess Grace Hospital, blamed sedentary lifestyles for the epidemic—but said having an office job doesn't have to equate to back pain. 'The spine is an amazing feat of engineering. But it wasn't designed for sitting still,' he said. 'It is designed to move. It doesn't matter how ergonomic your office chair is, the height of your screen or even having a standing desk. 'It's not the answer to keeping your spine healthy. Movement is.' Whilst he acknowledged that these alterations may help improve posture, the best thing to do is take regular breaks. 'I set a chime on my [computer] desktop every hour signalling that it is time to get up and move,' he suggested. According to the back expert, movement is absolutely crucial to spine health, as this exercises the muscles. Tissue loading, which occurs when the muscles contract, is optimal for skeletal health. When this followed up by a period of rest—for example returning to your desk—the tissue becomes more resistant, building up back strength. He said this is particularly crucial for under 35-year-olds, who are still building bone mass, making it a critical time to implement practices that promote bone density and strength. Peak bone mass, which typically occurs between 25 and 35-years-old is the highest amount of bone tissue an individual can attain. Failure to build strong bones during this phase of life can increase the risk of osteoporosis—a health condition that weakens bones—and fractures in later life. 'It's all about forming habits when you're young,' Dr Natalia warned. 'If you don't use it, you'll lose it.' But, it's not too late for people who have surpassed the building block years, he added. 'My main message to everyone is to stay active, don't be afraid and push through the pain.' Whilst this might seem counter-intuitive, Dr Natalia said the best thing for people who have experienced back pain is to stay active. 'People become really inactive when they are suffering from back pain, partly because they are scared of it becoming something more serious and partly because they have been told that rest is the best thing for them. 'This couldn't be further from the truth,' he explained. Whilst he acknowledged that some pain is more severe than others, he said it is a common misconception that when something hurts it is causing harm. 'People too often confuse hurt and harm', he explained. 'Whilst pushing through may be painful, it is often the best thing you can do for your spine. 'Remember modification is always better than stopping altogether.' For those who are more prone to back pain, Dr Natalia suggested swapping out high impact workouts like running for something more gentle, like pilates or swimming when the pain is worse. However if the pain is persistent and does not improve after six weeks of rest, taking over-the-counter painkillers such as Ibuprofen and physical therapy, this could be a red-flag warning sign of something more serious. At this point, Dr Natalia advises contacting your GP who may refer you to a specialist for MRI imaging. However, he said that 90 per cent of cases do no progress to this stage and that most people should get better with a combination of physical therapy and painkillers. 'The best piece of advice I can give is don't be scared of your back and stay active.' As well as exercising regularly, making sure to stand up every hour, Dr Natalia said he also focuses on his diet, taking probiotics every day—which promote healthy bacteria in the gut—avoiding processed foods and refined sugar and eating a largely anti-inflammatory diet. The surgeons top tips come as new research has suggested that only one in ten treatments for back pain actually work. Experts from the University of New South Wales found that just one treatment for acute lower back pain and five treatments for chronic—or long-term—back pain were 'efficacious'. These included non-steroid anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen, for short-term back pain. For long-term back pain, the treatments found to be effective were exercise, spinal manipulative therapy, taping, antidepressants and drugs that target the pain receptors transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1). The findings will come as a blow to the millions of Americans and Brits who suffer from back pain, which can often be debilitating. It is the most common form of pain experienced by adults, with lower back pain affecting six in ten people in the UK, and eight in ten in the US. However, there is usually no immediately identifiable cause.
The Sun
4 days ago
- Health
- The Sun
The 6 most common types of back pain and how to ‘cure' each one – plus when it's critical you see a doctor NOW
WE'RE living through a back pain epidemic. It affects 49million people in the UK and 619million globally, and it can wreak havoc on our everyday lives. 10 From sharp stabs to dull aches and even numbness, it can be crippling for some. 'This pain can be debilitating, affecting general day to day movement, stopping people from being able to work and even sleep,' physiotherapist and musculoskeletal specialist Clara Kervyn tells Sun Health. Back pain accounts for more than 12million days off work every year, and it costs the NHS nearly £5billion annually. But not all back pain is the same, and some types require very different treatment to others. So what's the reason for yours? From slouching at your desk to arthritis, experts share the potential causes - as well as treatments to help you feel more comfortable… 1. Slipped disc A herniated disc, known to most of us as a slipped disc, occurs when the soft, gel-like tissue found between the vertebrae in your spine pushes outwards. There are about five to 20 cases per 1,000 adults. 'It occurs most often in the lumbar spine (lower back) but can affect the cervical spine (neck) and in rare instances, the thoracic spine (central back),' says Mr Gordan Grahovac, consultant neurosurgeon at Nuffield Health Tunbridge Wells Hospital. The most common causes include age-related degeneration, where the disc dries out and weakens, improper lifting technique with heavy weights, sudden trauma or injury and/or a sedentary lifestyle. Genetics can also play a role. A sharp, burning or shooting pain may be felt down one leg, shoulder, arm, hand or around the chest or abdomen, depending on where the herniated disc is down your spine. Mr Grahovac says that most of the time, herniated discs do not require surgery and improve over weeks to months. But do visit your GP, who can advise you on the next steps. If non surgical treatments - such as stretching, core strengthening and medication like ibuprofen - don't work within six to 12 weeks, surgery may be an option. 10 'The most common is a microdiscectomy,' says Mr Grahovac. 'This involves the removal of the herniated portion through a small incision on the back.' Full recovery from surgery can take up to 12 weeks. Mr Grahovac says: 'Seek immediate help and call 999 if you experience a loss of bladder or bowel control, leg weakness which gets worse and/or a severe pain that's not responding to treatment.' 2. Arthritis More than 10million people in the UK have arthritis. Spinal arthritis is a degenerative disease affecting the facet joints, found on the back of each vertebrae in the spine, and the intervertebral discs. 'It's most common in the mobile spine, including the lower back and neck,' says Mr Grahovac. 'Early signs can include mild back or neck stiffness, especially in the morning; intermittent discomfort that worsens with activity; a 'grinding' or popping sensation when you move; and fatigue.' Later stage symptoms might include nerve impingement, which can cause numbness, tingling or weakness, and/or a decreased range of motion of your lumbar spine or neck. Your GP will be able to diagnose spinal arthritis by assessing your range of motion, any family history, as well as any tenderness over the affected area. Both pulled and torn muscles may lead to bruising, swelling and muscle spasms. You may feel a 'pop' or a tear Elyn MarwickPersonal trainer 'Your doctor may even refer you to a musculoskeletal physiotherapist who can organise further investigations,' Mr Grahovac says. 'An X-ray could point out any narrowing between joints, while an MRI scan can pick up any nerve involvement or degeneration of spinal discs.' There's no cure for arthritis, however symptoms can be managed. 'Losing weight can reduce stress on the joints,' Mr Grahovac says. 'Try regular low-impact exercise such as swimming, walking and yoga, as well as weight-bearing exercise to increase muscle strength. 'When you experience a flare up, heat or ice therapy can help to ease stiffness and pain, and ibuprofen and naproxen can help to reduce pain and inflammation. 'Surgery is rare and typically reserved for severe, disabling cases with nerve root or cord compression.' 3. Sciatica Sciatica is not actually a condition itself. Instead, it's a symptom of the sciatic nerve - the largest nerve in your body - being irritated or compressed. 'It typically results from issues in the lower spine,' says Mr Grahovac. 'The most common cause is a herniated disc. 'Sciatic pain is a sharp, burning, shooting, or electric-like pain. 'It starts in the lower back or bum and radiates down one leg. It can go as far down as your foot. 'It can also be accompanied by numbness, a pins-and-needles-like tingling or muscle weakness in the leg or foot, and it might become worse when you're sitting, coughing or sneezing.' Between 13 and 40 per cent of people experience sciatica at some point in their life. There are a few temporary self-help treatments you can try. 'For the first 24 to 48 hours, try cold packs and then turn to heat therapy,' says Mr Grahovac. 'Ibuprofen and naproxen can help, as can one to two days of rest - but avoid prolonged bed rest. 'Short, frequent walks are better than being sedentary.' What the location of your back pain really means BACK pain is a common affliction that affects millions of Brits. Aches and pains might feel like an everyday part of life, but where they occur might indicate a more serious problem that requires attention. The location of your back pain could indicate you are suffering anything from organ problems to pinched nerves. Abbas Kanani, pharmacist at Online Pharmacy Chemist Click, said there are specific ways to treat each type of back pain, and some may need urgent attention. He said: 'You should also ask for an urgent GP appointment if your back pain is accompanied with a high temperature or if you've lost weight without trying to. 'You should also ask for one if there's a lump or swelling in your back or your back has changed shape. 'If the pain does not improve after resting or is worse at night the pain is made worse when sneezing, coughing or pooing, you should also contact them. 'Ask for an urgent appointment if the pain is coming from the top of your back — between your shoulders — rather than your lower back.' Sides - possible causes include kidney problems, pancreatitis, bowel inflammation, womb contraction Spine - possible causes include degenerative disc disease, spinal stenosis, arthritis Lower back - possible causes include muscle injury, spasms, herniated discs Upper back - possible causes include pinched nerves Neck - possible causes include misalignment, low flexibility Try gently stretching the hamstrings and piriformis - a small muscle near your hip joint. A seated forward fold can help your hamstrings. Sit on the ground with your legs straight and reach for your toes. For your piriformis, try a figure-four stretch. Lie down and cross one ankle over the opposite knee before pulling both legs in towards your chest. A physio, either private or referred by your NHS GP, can guide you through other exercises that help to relieve pressure on your sciatic nerve. Core strengthening exercises also help to stabilise the spine. If after four to six weeks there's no improvement, visit your GP. You may be eligible for an epidural steroid injection. 'This is usually effective for rapid relief as it targets inflammation at the nerve root,' Mr Grahovac says. Permanent solutions to your sciatica will depend on the underlying cause; your GP can advise you. 'Surgery has high success rates for the right candidates, especially if there's leg weakness or a disabling pain,' says Mr Grahovac. 4. Muscle strains Muscle strains occur when a muscle or tendon is stretched or torn. 'They commonly happen in everyday life, when bending over, twisting during household chores or picking up bags of shopping,' says personal trainer Elyn Marwick. Overtraining without resting enough can also cause a strain. So can undertraining. 'Muscles that are inflexible or without strength due to lack of use can lead to strained muscles on ordinary use like walking,' adds Elyn. 'Both pulled and torn muscles may lead to bruising, swelling and muscle spasms. 'You may also feel a 'pop' or a tear during the injury and tenderness. Even at rest the muscle may feel painful.' Elyn recommends the PRICE technique - protect, rest, ice, compress, elevate, which can help relieve pain and inflammation during the first days of recovery. You can also try a product like Deep Freeze Cold Gel (£4.25, Boots). 'It works by reducing blood flow to a strained muscle, significantly reducing inflammation and swelling,' says Elyn. As the muscle starts to feel better, it's important to move it. 'A physiotherapist can offer help and advice. You can either self-refer or pay to see one privately,' says Clara. 'Consult your GP if the pain feels severe, lasts for more than a few days, worsens with time or if you felt a pop at the time of the injury.' Call 111 if you also have a very high temperature, feel hot and shivery, or if you develop numbness, tingling, sudden weakness or difficulty controlling certain muscles. 5. Osteoporosis Osteoporosis, a condition where bones become weaker and more brittle, can lead to vertebral compression fractures, particularly in the spine, which may result in sudden or persistent back pain. 'These fractures can occur from minor falls, lifting or even coughing or sneezing,' says Clara. Osteoporosis, the most common type of arthritis affecting an estimated 8.5million people, often progresses silently and may go undiagnosed until a fracture occurs. 'Bone density testing is key for early detection, especially if you're at higher risk, such as postmenopausal women or those with a family history of the condition,' says Clara. Sitting slouched at a desk or looking down at a screen for extended periods may lead to tension in the upper and lower back, neck and shoulders Clara KervynPhysiotherapist Although osteoporosis can't be fully reversed, you can slow its progression, reducing the risk of fractures. Clara recommends increasing your intake of calcium, magnesium, vitamin D, vitamin C and trace minerals such as copper, zinc and manganese, which can all support bone health. Try Holland & Barrett ABC to Z Multivitamins & Minerals tablets (£4.75), which contain all of these nutrients. Resistance-based exercises are also one of the best things you can do to help improve bone density. General movement, such as walking, will help too. Clara also suggests reducing alcohol and quitting smoking. 6. Poor posture Bad posture can place a lot of strain on muscles and soft tissues. 'Sitting slouched at a desk or looking down at a screen for extended periods may lead to tension in the upper and lower back, neck and shoulders,' says Clara. 'Leaning on one leg or having rounded shoulders can cause imbalances over time that contribute to discomfort. 'When sitting, use a chair with good back support to maintain the natural curve of your lower back. 'Sit upright and avoid slouching or leaning to one side. 'Keep feet flat on the floor and elbows at a 90-degree angle with your forearms parallel to the floor.' Get up and move around every hour and do some simple stretches to avoid stiffness and keep joints mobile. Try Deep Heat Muscle Massage Roll-on Lotion (£5.85, Tesco) which helps to ease tight muscles. Clara adds: 'When standing, stand tall with shoulders back. 'Avoid slouching; instead, engage your core, gently drawing in your lower abdomen. 'Keep your feet shoulder-width apart and weight balanced on the balls of your feet, with knees slightly bent.' I was left on the brink of total paralysis after doctors dismissed by back pain as 'anxiety' By Katrina Turrill, Health News Editor A DAD-of-three was left fearing he'd never walk again after doctors repeatedly dismissed his excruciating back pain as anxiety. Mark Doe, 36, from Swindon, endured months of agony, pins and needles, and leg weakness, initially attributed to a small disc bulge. Despite his worsening symptoms, including needing a walking aid, a neurologist told him his issues were "all my anxiety" and upped his mental health medication without further scans. Mark felt "really let down and lost," believing he "just had to put up with the symptoms." The terrifying truth emerged three months later when a "pop" in his back left him unable to move, with radiating pain and a loss of bladder function. He recalled: "I couldn't move with the immense pain. I would scream out every time I moved." At the hospital, doctors suspected Cauda Equina Syndrome, a condition where nerves at the base of the spinal cord are compressed, which can lead to paralysis. An emergency MRI revealed the small bulge had "grown much bigger and was crushing my nerves." Mark was rushed into nearly five hours of surgery. His recovery has been "very difficult". He was bed-bound for six weeks and unable to hold his five-month-old daughter. He still suffers pain and may need further surgery, but he emphasises: "If the doctor I had for the second appointment had sent me for a scan, maybe this could have been prevented or not been so bad." Mark added: "Don't give up, keep on at doctors, don't do it alone."
Daily Mail
6 days ago
- Health
- Daily Mail
I'm a physical therapist who suffered from crippling back pain for years... here is the cure I swear by
Back pain is one of the most common, persistent annoyances for a large share of Americans. About eight in 10 adults deal with back pain at some point in their lives, largely from slouching or sitting at a desk all day. Sanjit Koomer, a physical therapist in Canada, is one of those people - suffering from the condition for over two years - despite his job revolving around helping others manage their own pain. He has gone to massage and physical therapists only to be given the 'same generic, copy-paste exercises' that did nothing for his pain. That's when he decided to take matters into my own hands and rebuild his back 'from the ground up.' Koomer discovered a stretch called the 'reverse Jefferson curl,' which he called a 'gamechanger.' The exercise consists of facing a wall and placing your hips flush against it. Then, clasp your hands behind you and slowly lean your shoulders and head back, keeping your arms straight. Hold for a few seconds before slowly returning to standing straight. In his video, Kooner uses a weighted backpack to provide resistance and he claims the move helps stretch and strengthen muscles in the back. He told Fit and Well: 'It wasn't a magic fix, but once I introduced it consistently — two to three times per week — I started noticing real improvements over a couple of months. It became a key part of the bigger picture that helped me recover.' He noted the move may be particularly helpful for stiffness and or 'lack of posterior chain control,' or trouble coordinating lower back and pelvic muscles. Kooner demonstrated the move in a recent Instagram Reel and suggested beginners start with their hands on their hips for additional support. 'Focus on segmental spinal control first—no weight, slow tempo, and small range,' he said. 'Once comfortable, you can add resistance gradually.' The physical therapist said he used a three-pound backpack in the video and would suggest no more than 10 to 15 pounds at a time. He recommends completing around 10 repetitions, four to six times a day. Kooner claims the movement works because the spine 'is designed to move and bear load in all directions.' By moving back muscles in different unusual directions it helps to improve mobility and flexibility and combat stiffness. Kooner said: 'This exercise helps improve spinal flexion strength and control, which are often neglected in rehab and training programs.' Causes of lower back pain primarily come from the arthritis of the spine, or the slow degeneration of spinal joints. As cartilage breaks down, surrounding tissue may become inflamed. Additionally, back injuries can happen at any moment, even just from sitting at a desk or getting out of bed. Temperature changes may also induce inflammation in the joints and spine, leading to pain. While at-home exercises can provide relief, people with severe pain or back injuries should consult with a doctor before trying any exercises.
Telegraph
22-07-2025
- General
- Telegraph
The best garden kneelers for comfort and support, tested by a gardener and injury specialist
The products or services listed have been independently tested by our journalists. We will earn a commission from the affiliate links in this article. It's important to kneel down when rooting around in your garden or pulling up weeds by hand as this minimises your risk of developing back pain (the most common gardening injury). But kneeling can quickly become uncomfortable or cause other injuries without correct protection. Using a long-handled weeding tool can help in some instances, but when you need to get close to the plants you're tending, a good garden kneeler is the way to go. Garden kneelers may seem similar at first glance, but as with garden hoses and leaf blowers, the differences soon become apparent once you start trying them out. Prices range from £15 to £60 and leading brands such as Burgon and Ball, Sarah Raven and Lakeland Active offer a wide range of designs. You'll even find some that double as seats which have metal frames to help elderly gardeners or those with limited mobility to get up and down. To help you make the best choice, this article is updated regularly. Best garden kneelers: At a glance JUMP TO REVIEWS How to choose the best garden kneelers I'm a gardening expert and former soft-tissue injury specialist, so I know first hand how important it is to take care of your body when tending to your flower beds and veg patches. Choosing the best garden kneeler can limit direct injuries like scratches and bruises, and inflammatory conditions that develop from kneeling on hard surfaces, such as prepatellar bursitis. Start by considering how you usually garden. If you have problems with mobility, look for a kneeler with a metal frame to support you as you lower onto the kneeling pad. They also flip over to become a seat, which great for a quick rest, though they are less portable. If you tend to move around your garden a lot then use a lightweight kneeling pad which has a carrying handle for easy transport. You can also try knee pads that strap around your legs to leave your hands free to carry secateurs and other tools. Larger but heavier kneelers let you reposition yourself without dislodging the pad while smaller, more portable kneelers are good for quick jobs but offer less padding. Consider materials, too. Hard-wearing textiles like canvas and leather are more expensive but for rough surfaces like gravel, paving or brick, they are a necessary investment to ensure longevity. If you're only going to use the kneeler on soil or grass, then a softer, cheaper material will suffice. How we test garden kneelers I took an armful of kneelers to my garden and allotment to test them out, firstly on a bark chip surface, where I carried out some much-needed weeding and dead heading, then on paving slabs, and finally on gravel. I even scratched the kneelers along the ground to test the durability of the fabric. Gardening can test the fitness and endurance of even the sprightliest of us, and transporting a wheelbarrow full of tools for every job can get tiring quickly. So, I wanted the kneelers I recommended to strike a good balance between being easy to carry around and comfortable. I judged everything from set-up to handle design (and even seat design if a kneeler was multi purpose). I was also looking for kneelers that were waterproof and would stay put on muddy ground if needed, useful in all seasons, clean easily and crucially appeared as though they would stand the test of time. Why you can trust Telegraph Recommended Our thorough, real-world tests will always help you find the best gardening product. No manufacturer ever sees Telegraph Recommended reviews before publication and we don't accept payment in exchange for favourable reviews, nor do we allow brands to pay for placement in our articles. All opinions are based on independent expert opinion and our hands-on testing. Visit our Who We Are page to learn more. The best garden kneelers of 2025 1. Best Buy Garden Kneeler: Genus Gardening Kneeler As one of the more expensive kneeling pads on this list, I was hoping for greatness and happily, I was not disappointed. It's also the thickest pad I tested, offering protection for long days in the garden. It is made from hard-wearing polyester fabric that feels comfortable on bare knees and is tough enough for all garden surfaces. It's also waterproof, so you can use the kneeler in wet conditions without ruining your trousers. Helpfully, the cover is also removable, which makes it easy to maintain; either sponge clean or brush away small amounts of dirt, or hand wash the cover in soapy water if it is really mucky. This pad is big enough that you can place your hand onto it too, negating the need for gardening gloves, which you'd want if you put your hand in the soil to balance yourself. This also takes some pressure off your back. It's heavy duty but still light and easy to carry with two handles, so you can grab it and go straight onto the next task. Key specifications 2. Best Value Garden Kneeler: Burgon and Ball Kneelo Garden Kneeler Available in 18 different colours and patterns, this Burgon and Ball Kneelo kneeler will add a little fun to your garden shed. A layer of thicker foam is sandwiched between two layers of soft memory foam, a combination that protects your knees when on rough surfaces and feels comfortable for long periods. The outer layer is made from neoprene, which felt breathable and soft when I had bare knees, and it dried quickly and was easy to clean. Lined neoprene isn't the most hard-wearing fabric though, so this kneeler will have a longer lifespan if only used on softer surfaces such as bare soil or grass, even if it's more than padded enough for use elsewhere. This kneeler is similar to the Spear and Jackson Kew Gardens Collection Kneeling Pad below, but is slightly wider, softer and lighter. This is unlikely to make a huge difference to your experience, but the Burgon and Ball is better if you like to kneel with the tops of your feet flat on the ground, putting more weight on your shins than knees. It also will need moving less frequently, giving you room to shift your position on the mat to reach different parts of your garden beds. Key specifications Design: Kneeling pad Size: L 52cm, W 30.5cm, D 6cm Material: Neoprene cover, EVA and memory foam filling Special features: Wide range of colours and patterns 3. Best Gardening Knee Pads: Burgon and Ball Kneelo Knee Pads These knee pads are a refreshing alternative to the traditional gardening kneeler. Designed for active gardeners who are constantly on the move, these pads secure comfortably to your leg, letting you go anywhere without concern for potential knee pain or injuries. The Velcro straps mean the fit is adjustable, with one positioned above the knee and one below, leaving the back of your knee clear of any extra fabric. The pads are thick and contain cushioning memory foam, similar to that of the Kneelo Garden Kneeler, and are covered with neoprene, which is waterproof to protect your skin and trousers from getting wet. Wash them with a sponge and some soapy water; I found they could withstand some scrubbing with a soft brush too. I will admit to feeling slightly self-conscious wearing these pads at first on my allotment, but I soon started enjoying my newfound freedom. If you're never in the same place for too long, these knee pads are the best choice for you. Available in 10 different colours ranging from bright yellow to a soft grey, there is something to suit every gardener, though be warned they can get hot in warm weather. Key specifications 3. Best Garden Kneeler for Comfort and Style: Sarah Raven Kneeler This kneeling pad uses firm but comfortable foam covered in waxed cotton with a leather carrying handle and pouch. The handle is big enough to loop it over your arm, leaving your hands free to carry gardening tools. The pouch also comes in handy if you have a lot to carry as there's extra space for secateurs or gardening gloves. This kneeler is quite narrow at just 21cm wide, so it would suit if you're someone who puts weight on your knees rather than placing your shins flat. It provides good cushioning while the waxed cotton cover wipes down easily and offers a level of water proofing. I noticed scratches and scuffs though, and while it doesn't affect overall use it can look unsightly. If this is likely to bother you, the Niwaki, Genus and Sophie Conran kneelers are all made with scratch-proof fabric. This one offers more protection for your knees than the Sophie Conran design, and is softer than the Niwaki and Genus kneelers, so it's a case of prioritising your preferences before you make a purchase. Otherwise, the quality of the Sarah Raven Kneeler is exceptional, and with its aesthetically pleasing design, it would make an excellent gift too. Key specifications 4. Best Garden Kneeler for Serious Gardeners: Niwaki Kneeler This wide, firm garden kneeler is excellent for tough surfaces in the garden. It has five centimetres of relatively hard foam, covered by a thick and durable layer of canvas. It's a no-nonsense design that will protect your knees, but as the foam is quite hard it might not suit some people's taste. It would favour heavier gardeners or anyone who doesn't want soft cushioning. One benefit is that rather than sinking into the padding, it makes standing up a little easier. The other is that firmer kneelers like this one offer some stability on uneven ground, though you may find you can't spend as long on your knees. I particularly liked its width, too. At 29cm there's ample space for your shins and hands to push yourself up, and it remains lightweight despite its size. The fun, bright red handle is even large enough to carry looped over your arm. Key specifications Design: Kneeling pad Size: L 48.5cm, W 28.9cm, D 5.4cm Material: 16oz coated canvas cover, spongy inner Special features: It floats 5. Best Garden Kneeler for Beginners: Sophie Conran Kneeler This classy little kneeler is easy to carry, lightweight and offers a decent amount of cushioning for a low price. Its thick cotton cover is coated with PVC, making it easy to clean and surprisingly durable. The fabric is waterproof and can be quickly wiped clean after use, too. There's no compromising on looks, protection or comfort here. The carrying handle is large enough to loop over your arm. And while the padding is relatively thin, it feels comfortable, even on stony ground. My only gripe is that it's quite small. This makes storing it easy but you'll have to move it regularly if you are shifting position. As an affordable all-rounder, this kneeler would make a lovely gift and is a great choice for new gardeners looking to add some eye candy to their garden shed. Key specifications Design: Kneeling pad Size: L 44cm, W 23cm, D 5cm Material: PVC coated cotton cover, padded inner Special features: Leather tag 6. Best Kneeling Pad for Comfort: The Kew Gardens Collection Patterned Cushion Kneeler from Spear and Jackson Score: 8/10 We like: The soft, deep cushioning and different colours Like a good pair of gardening gloves, this padded kneeler will help protect your knees from sharp objects on the ground and provide comfort while pruning and tending. The cover is made from lined neoprene, making it waterproof and easy to clean, though I noticed it can snag and catch on sharp objects. I tested a fair few of this type of kneeler and this is one of the deepest, providing excellent cushioning for your knees. The Spear and Jackson Kneeler has quite a small pad size, which is pinched in the middle, so you'll likely need to adjust it as you move around for optimum support. The trade off is that it is easier to store. It has an ergonomic carrying handle, though the thick padding around it means it's a bit of a challenge to carry additional tools like a gardening fork in the same hand. It's available in eight different colours, so at least you should be able to match it to the rest of your kit. Key specifications Design: Kneeling pad Size: L 47cm, W 28cm, D 5.3cm Material: Neoprene cover and memory foam filling Special features: Available in eight different colours 7. Best Garden Kneeler with Handles: Draper 2-in-1 Folding Garden Kneeler This kneeler offers a solution for gardeners with limited mobility, as its metal frame provides handles to help you lower yourself down and give you support when standing again. And if you flip it over it becomes a seat, too. It's not padded, mind, and at just 32cm high, it's fairly low and likely won't feel that comfortable for long, especially if you are tall. Large sunken holes on the seat pad aren't great in muddy conditions either, as they can be difficult to clean. With that said, the pad on the Draper kneeler is much wider than the one on the similarly designed VonHaus (below), which is comfortable and gives you more flexibility for its use. While some slightly unappealing plastic buttons adorn the pad, I didn't notice them during testing. Overall, the kneeling pad feels sturdy and comfortable. It is lighter than other folding garden kneelers I tested, easier to fold away and set up and has a greater weight limit of 19.7 stone. It's just a shame the seat isn't a tad more inviting. Key specifications Design: Folding garden kneeler and seat Size: L 24cm, W 12cm, D 4.8cm, H 40cm Material: Metal frame and dense foam pad Special features: Easy to fold 8. Best Garden Kneeler with Seat: VonHaus Garden Kneeler Seat and Tool Set This clever kneeler is a good choice for any gardeners who struggle to go from standing to kneeling and vice versa. With handles that double as legs for a seat and foam padding on both sides, it is versatile and supportive, and should help you to garden for longer. There's even a nifty tool pouch on the side attached with a Velcro loop making it adjustable for accessibility at all times, whether you're seated or kneeling, and it comes with a set of tools to boot. The metal frame feels sturdy and easily takes your weight as you lower yourself onto it (although the 15 stone weight limit is lower than the Draper above and it's a heavier frame overall). It is a little clunky to fold down and requires you to pull in a handle while folding in the legs on either side. With this type of kneeler it can be difficult to work on the ground, however. As it is slightly elevated, it means you have to lean forward more which can put pressure on your lower back. Additionally, the pad itself is quite narrow, at only 15.5cm wide, which can feel a bit uncomfortable if you need room for your shin as well as your knee. If it suits your gardening style, however, it's a sensible buy. Key specifications Design: Folding garden kneeler and seat Size: L 59.5cm, W 27cm, H 49cm Material: Metal frame and dense foam pad Special features: Comes with tool pouch and three tools 9. Best for Seniors: Crocus Folding Garden Kneeler This garden kneeler is rather similar to the VonHaus folding design, though I found its smooth coated metal handles slightly easier to clean. There's no tools holder, but it feels sturdy and well-built; to set it up, simply pull the legs out until they click and turn it upside down to turn it into to a seat. The overall height and padding on both sides makes this device comfortable to use whether as a kneeler or a seat. The weight limit is 15 stone, which will accommodate most gardeners. Disassembly felt a bit awkward, as you have to pull in a bar next to the seat while folding in one leg and then repeat on the other side. Again it's the same mechanism featured on the VonHaus, but this one seems a tad smoother. It is not as easy to carry as a kneeling pad; the handles add weight and bulk, so I'd only opt for this design if you want to benefit from the additional support and the seat. I'd recommend using a wheelbarrow to transport tools and the kneeler around the garden. Key specifications 10. Best Kneeler for Small Gardens: Lakeland Active Thistlewood Memory Foam Garden Kneeler This small and pretty garden kneeler offers excellent comfort over long periods. It should tidy away neatly and is available in six different colours and patterns, adding a little pop to your potting shed. As a relatively firm kneeling pad, this will give you good protection from uneven and hard surfaces, helping to absorb the feel of stones and other bits on the ground. This kneeler would suit working in tight spaces but bear in mind you will need to continually shift it underneath you as you move. This is not uncommon, but the smaller the pad, the more you will need to adjust. A comfortable carrying handle makes it particularly portable. In all, this kneeler would be a good choice if you have a small garden and limited storage space. Key specifications Design: Kneeling pad Size: L 49cm, W 30cm, D 5cm Material: Neoprene cover and memory foam pad Special features: Available in six different colours and patterns 11. Best Garden Kneeler for Muddy Gardens: Senua Kneeling Pad £11.99 Buy now Price at Amazon This heavy duty no-frills garden kneeler is both budget and knee friendly. Made from foam, it is tough, durable and waterproof with a lightweight feel and carry handle that make it suitably portable. You can choose between black and blue colourways, too. It has nearly four centimetres of padding and it is particularly firm, so will easily cushion your knees against rocks and other hard and uneven areas in your garden. The support is such that it shouldn't flatten underneath you, even if you're a heavier build. I even found it comfortable to sit on when I needed to give my knees some respite. However, as the hardest kneeler on this list, it certainly won't feel as comfortable if you are using it for longer periods of time. It's not the one to choose for sink-in comfort, but if you want a hard-wearing kneeler that you can hose down once you're done, look no further. It's an excellent alternative to the often trickier-to-maintain fabric covered designs. Key specifications Design: Kneeling pad Size: L 45cm, W 28cm, D 4cm Material: Dense foam Special features: Easy to clean Garden kneeler FAQs What is the best type of garden kneeler for comfort and support? The best type of garden kneeler for you depends on your levels of mobility, writes gardener and former injury specialist, Becky Searle. With handled kneelers, they are always a few inches above the ground, and this can make reaching towards it more uncomfortable. If you just want to protect your knees while gardening, choose a cushioned kneeling pad or knee pads. Are all garden kneelers waterproof and easy to clean? No, not all garden kneelers are waterproof, but most are easy to clean. Garden kneelers with handles have more parts to clean, and textured fabric is more difficult to wipe than smooth fabrics; coated fabrics are easier to maintain than uncoated ones. Many garden kneelers are covered in neoprene, which is easy to clean but can snag on sharp objects such as thorns, unlike coated or waxed cotton, leather or canvas. Are garden kneelers with handles easy to use for getting up? Getting up from a kneeling position can be a challenge even for younger gardeners after a prolonged period, so having handles to push yourself up is extremely useful. The handles either side on this type of kneeler help you to distribute your weight evenly across both sides of your body, helping you to stand.
Yahoo
17-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Paul Simon Sparks New Health Fears After Canceling Two Concerts Amid Ongoing Back Issues
Music icon Paul Simon is sparking new fears for his health after axing two upcoming shows due to excruciating back pain – leaving insiders fearing the 'Bridge Over Troubled Waters' singer is headed towards his sad last days. Now sources fear the 83-year-old voice of multiple generations is coming to grips that he's headed to the final curtain of his career — and life — as he is overwhelmed by a growing raft of physical ills. The shocking show cancellations last month came as the aging 83-year-old Graceland maestro must undergo a 'surgical procedure' to relieve 'unmanageable' back agony. As Globe has reported, the condition's the latest in a string of health woes including one that's robbed the 'Sound of Silence' singer of 96 percent of the hearing in his left ear back in 2023. The baffling and still undiagnosed hearing condition struck while Paul was working on his latest album, Seven Psalms, and kept him from touring and playing some of his more famous hits like, 'You Can Call Me Al.' 'Quite suddenly I lost most of the hearing in my left ear, and nobody has an explanation for it,' Paul says. 'My reaction to that was frustration and annoyance — not quite anger yet — because I thought it would pass, it would repair itself.' But sources say that only some of his hearing returned. Sources say the singer, who rocketed to super-stardom on a massive string of mid-1960s hits with his then-partner Art Garfunkel, has become resigned to his approaching final curtain. 'It's just the age we're at,' the musician notes. 'Gordon Lightfoot just passed away, Jeff Beck too. My generation's time is up.' Medical experts tell Globe that Paul's crippling issues are likely to grow worse — and his adoring public should prepare for his retirement. 'At his age, hearing, nerve and joint damage are only likely to increase,' says Dr. Gabe Mirkin, a Florida longevity specialist. 'The older we are, the harder it is to bounce back from such serious ailments.' A music industry source says Paul seems to be having trouble accepting the inevitable, adding: 'It must be total agony for him to come to terms with what is clearly a fast-approaching end.' Solve the daily Crossword
