Sore Back? Here Are Things to Avoid
By Paul Rothbart
Few things can stop you in your tracks like a sore back. It makes everything more difficult. Walking, sitting, and housework seem to be monumental tasks. Forget about lifting anything even moderately heavy. Constant pain is also distracting, taking focus away from where it needs to be. Fortunately, you don't have to suffer. Back pain has its causes and by avoiding the things that make your back sore, you can minimize the pain and stiffness.
Avoid Poor Posture
Posture does make a big difference. Slumping while standing with your back, neck and shoulders curved forward strains the muscles and tendons of those body parts. It also places stress on the spine. If you slouch when you sit, the same thing happens. Stand straight, head up, shoulders back and your knees slightly bent. When sitting, keep both feet flat on the floor with your upper body in the same posture as when standing. Improving your posture is one of the best ways to avoid back pain.
Avoid Lifting Incorrectly
Some people lift for a living. Those who don't still may have to lift a heavy object from time to time. Doing this incorrectly can cause pain as well as damage to your back. Always keep your back straight and lift with your legs. The muscles of your lower body are the strongest and should bear most of the load. Get a secure grip on the object and hold it close to your body. Keep your head up and shoulders back just as when standing normally. Never twist your torso to rotate the load. Always turn your entire body, moving your feet.
Avoid Being Overweight
Weight management can be difficult but it is worth the effort. Your spine supports a good portion of your body weight. The heavier you are, the harder it has to work. The strain extra weight places on your body, including the back, increases geometrically. Even losing 10 percent of your total weight will take considerable stress off your back. Make a commitment to drop those extra pounds and keep them off. Your back will thank you.
Don't Avoid the Chiropractor
Regular chiropractic visits can be very beneficial to easing and preventing back pain. A chiropractor will find any subluxations or other problems and correct them with an adjustment. When adding chiropractic care to avoiding the things that make your back sore, you may find that your pain is a thing of the past.
Experiencing back pain can be a nightmare. Avoid doing the things that strain your back. You should also consider a visit to The Joint Chiropractic. No appointment is needed and you may find that seeing a chiropractic is the final victory in the war on back pain.
To learn more about your health, wellness and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Nashville, Tenn.