Heading to the Zoo? 3 Tips to Avoid Back Pain
By Virginia Laird
With school almost out, you may be starting to plan a few summer fun staycations. One great trip, which offers fun for both children and adults, is a visit to the zoo. The zoo in Nashville is no exception. For many, the thought of walking around all day can prove to be painful. Rather than allowing this to stop you from enjoying the fun to be had, take some advice from the professionals. Chiropractors advise those getting ready to spend a long period of time on their feet take a few precautions to ensure you are pain-free at the end of the day. A few suggestions offered by these doctors include:
- Pack light and carry the right bag
- Wear supportive and comfy shoes
- Bring a stroller for young children
Pack Light and Carry the Right Bag
A long day at the zoo can require a few necessities which cannot be left behind. If the load is too much, it can be taxing on the back. Chiropractors suggest it is best to only pack what is necessary. Keeping your load light can help prevent back pain while enjoying your stroll around the zoo. Another tip concerning what you pack is to make certain to bring the right bag (or purse). Chiropractors suggest that a backpack with two straps is the very best choice when there is a need to lug a heavy load around for a long period of time. If this choice does not suit you, the next best is a crossbody bag. This helps to distribute the weight of the bag.
Wear Supportive and Comfy Shoes
Chiropractors always talk to their patients suffering with back pain about the importance of wearing good shoes. These are described as shoes that are both comfortable and supportive. Research suggests when shoes are worn which do not offer the appropriate support, they can cause an unnatural stride. This can put undue stress on the spine which can lead to restriction and pain. Tennis shoes are much more preferred than the popular summer favorite, the flip-flop. Chiropractors advise that flip-flops do not offer any support or cushion to help prevent pain.
Bring a Stroller for Young Children
Bringing a stroller to the zoo can be a back saver if you have young children. Inevitably, young children will ask to be carried. For those who have been on their feet for most of the day, this can prove to be an impossible and painful task. Although we love to haul our children around as much as possible, a stroller will save your back some issues. Chiropractors suggest that strollers can also be used for your bag of necessities. This can further remove any issue with back pain which may try to creep in on your day of fun.
Now you are ready to head out to the zoo and get your summer fun started without the nuisance of back pain. Happy summer!
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Brentwood, Tenn.