NUTRITION
Approximately 31 million Americans experience low-back pain at any given time. Although there are various medications to treat back pain, the best way to avoid it is to avoid causing the pain altogether. Here are 5 simple adjustments you can make to your daily habits that may help lessen or eliminate back pain.
Exercise
While it may seem like resting your back when it is in pain may help, the best cure is exercise. Rest may help temporarily, but physical activity is what will help decrease inflammation and lessen muscle tension. Exercise will help to keep back joints lubricated, loose and pain free.
Low impact workouts are the best workouts for your back such as walking, cycling, swimming, or yoga. Avoid high impact workouts such as jumping rope.
Watch Your Posture
It may feel nice to get comfy at work, but slouching and sitting all day may be ruining your back. Reduce the stress put on your back by finding a chair that supports your spine and promotes good posture. If possible, a standing desk is deal because it will promote your overall health.
Take Caution While Lifting
It’s extremely important to use proper lifting techniques. Improper lifting could lead to back pain or even a trip to the hospital. Always bend your knees and squat, then lift the object from your legs. While standing up, keep the object close to your body. You should never lift from your back or bend over from the waist to pick up a heavy object. Pushing an object rather than pulling is idea because it is easier on your back.
Sleeping Positions Matter
Back pain could be caused by the way you sleep. The worst position to sleep in is on your stomach. One position that may help your back is sleeping on your side with your knees pulled towards you. If you prefer to sleep on your back, try placing pillows under your lower back and knees for support.
Maintaining a Healthy Diet
Extra weight could be what is causing you to have back pain due to the extra pounds in your mid-section putting strain on your back muscles. Staying within ten pounds of your ideal weight will help to take the stress of your back and eliminating pain.
Is your lower back getting in the way of completing your favorite activities? Don’t let pain control your life, call Blackstone Orthopedics & Sports Medicine today at 800-725-3037 to book an appoint with an orthopedic surgeon.
