If there is one body part that most people seem to have problems with at some point in life, it must be the back. Back pain is such a common part of modern life that many people just accept it as normal and try to get by as best they can. Of course, anyone in the chiropractic profession or those with knowledge of human anatomy knows that most of the time, back pain isn’t necessary at all. Treatment from a chiropractor can help immensely, but you can also help yourself. Here are some effective back pain tips from an Urbandale chiropractor.
Watch How You Lift
Poor lifting technique is a common cause of lower back strains and sprains, so it is important to observe proper form when lifting heavy objects. No matter what you are lifting, try to keep your back straight and use your legs to do the bulk of the work. Often when we get tired, the legs are used less and less, but you’re asking for a back injury if you stop using your legs. It’s also important not to twist your body when holding a heavy object. If you must turn, move your feet until your body is facing the right direction.
Proper Nutrition
Most people don’t consider nutrition as an essential component to good spinal health, but it can be. Drinking a lot of water and eating healthy foods will help keep weight off your midsection. Carrying excess weight in your stomach causes an imbalance, pulling on those muscles in your lower back all day long. If you suffer from back pain and carry extra weight in your stomach, modify your diet to reduce the burden on your back.
Sensible Exercise
Exercise is a vital part of good health for a variety of reasons, but it’s also a good way to injure your back if you don’t exercise properly. Whatever type of exercise you choose, take the time to warm up properly beforehand and cool down properly when you’re done. Many people just want to jump right in and start lifting weights or playing a sport, but your back muscles are still cold and tight. Find an exercise that’s within your fitness range and protect your back before, during, and after.
Avoid Prolonged Sitting
Generally speaking, people sit far more than they used to. Many professions require long hours at a computer and it can take a toll on your health. The human body is designed to move, so when you sit all day long you’re compressing the discs in your spine. Obviously, everyone can’t switch professions, but you can get up and walk around a little each hour during the day to take some pressure off. If you’d like more back pain tips contact our Urbandale chiropractic team.
At Advanced Spine Health Center our team is here to help answer your questions. Please feel free to contact us today.
