Top tips for keeping your back in tip-top shape
posted: Apr. 02, 2020.
Nothing can slow you down faster than a bad back. It can be challenging to exercise, play sports, or even get to the grocery store when your back hurts. Age, lack of exercise, excess weight, improper lifting, and too many hours sitting can all result in lower back pain. Research suggests that over 80 percent of people will experience back pain at some point in their life.The spinal discs act as a natural shock absorption system that is both strong and flexible. Spinal discs play an essential role, acting as small shock absorbers and giving you the ability to move in different directions. Your discs are comprised of two major parts: an outer ring of cartilage, which provides support, and a jelly-like center that facilitates motion. As age and injuries catch up with us, the discs can herniate. A herniated disc occurs when the middle (the jelly) of the disc breaks through the outer wall, irritating a spinal nerve and causing severe pain in your back or leg. So, how can you avoid aggravating the symptoms of lower back pain?
Bulletproof your Lower back with these tips:
Avoid too much sitting: Long hours of sitting each day wreak havoc on the muscles and support system of your low back. The deep stabilizing muscles of your lower back atrophy and your hamstrings shorten and become tight. When your spine doesn’t have strong stabilizing muscles, you are more likely to have an injury. After an injury, many of us slow down our activity even more. It’s a vicious cycle.
Get some exercise: Take every opportunity you can to stay active throughout the day. Standing desks are a fantastic way to change positions and keep your back healthy while still getting work done on the computer. Taking short breaks each hour to stretch or walk around the office is a great way to increase your energy level and engage the muscles supporting your low back.
See your chiropractor: Researchers have found that chiropractic care can help get you back on track after an injury and also help prevent future episodes of low back pain from occurring. Chiropractic care has been shown to help over 90 percent of people find relief from back pain while also providing a statistically significant improvement in function. Doctors can assess the “health” of your spine through x-rays and a physical exam by reviewing your range of motion, strength, and posture. By periodically having your spine checked, you take a proactive approach to your spinal health. Chiropractic adjustments gently and effectively help restore proper range of motion in your neck, mid-back, and low back.
A healthy back = a healthy life
Keeping your back healthy is much more important than just avoiding aches and pains. Spinal discs stay healthy by having strong muscular support and a full range of motion. A stable and supported back is essential to maintaining a high quality of life.