[Enfield Glen]

I had not been doing that much but after only two minutes digging with a fork and found my self unable to stand up straight and now the Sciatica has joined in, AGAIN

Has anyone tried any other alternatives to the old school fork and if so are they any good. I dont rally want to go No Dig as I am a bit OCD when it comes to weeds.

thanks

[Aunt Sally]

A friend of mine has a Back Saver Autospade.

Not cheap but very effective.  Can get cheaper on eBay.

https://youtu.be/WezHc-107Dc?si=IG_z2rktJ7tDm-_w

[snowdrops]

Oh I’m sorry to hear that, perhaps look into getting your core muscles strengthened- yoga is gentle enough to do that without exerting yourself too much. I find no dig has lessened the weeds for me

[mumofstig]

When my back started playing up (eventually diagnosed as Spinal Stenosis) I found that all I could do was jab the fork in about halfway and the twist it out again. That was enough to keep the soil open enough for growing in.
I used a bulb planter for anything that needed to be planted deeper.
I hope it eases off again soon, fingers crossed...

[Yorkie]

So sorry to hear this and I hope it gets better soon.

Someone I know swears that pilates has helped with their bad back, which was interfering with their ability to garden.

[Hampshire Hog]

I have had sciatica twice so I know how bad it can be.
First time I had help from physiotherapist who gave me acupuncture and the second I consulted an osteopath who gave me set of exercises. Both times it resolved fairly quickly although I had to pay privately for the treatment.
PS If you are bothered about weeds would it be worth getting a gas weed burning device?? No digging just roast them!!

[steven c]

sorry only just noticed this Glen i have had 3 slipped disc 1 operated on i sympathise the pain is awful that prompted me to try no dig on my allotment plots all 8x4 decking boards as edging woodchip paths we had far less weeds than our friend in next plot that he digs  initial set up is more work but after just top up beds with manure in october/november we also garden same way at home.