Back pain is a terrible affliction. Not only does it cause great discomfort, but it can also severely restrict your capacity to enjoy life. Although a variety of treatments and remedies are available, the best solution is simply prevention.
Here are a few tips to help you avoid it.
Lift Correctly
One of the most common bad habits that can lead to back pain is improper lifting of heavy objects. Although there are endless amounts of warnings in place, particularly in the workplace, many people still continue to bend over from the waist when lifting, putting tremendous strain on the back. If you want to avoid back pain, make sure you bend your knees and let your legs take the weight.
Drink Water
It may not seem like the most obvious precaution, but drinking plenty of water can actually help to prevent back pain. Your intervertebral disks are designed to act as shock absorbers in your spine and if they’re unhealthy, you run the risk of injury. By drinking lots of water, the height of these disks increases and enhances their capacity to absorb shock.
Sleeping Position
Certain sleeping positions cause strain which can lead to back pain. To avoid this, you must find a sleeping position which works for you without putting your back at risk, it is important to avoid sleeping on your front. Ideally sleep on your back with a fairly flat pillow or if you can’t sleep on your back or if you are a snorer on your side with your head supported. There is no universally recognised best sleeping position to adopt, but if you experience any discomfort in the neck or back after sleeping, it may be a sign you have to change things up. If in doubt, be sure to consult a doctor for advice.
Avoid Sitting for Long Periods
Sitting for long periods can be very dangerous for your back. The disks in your spine become compressed, which can lead to some very serious problems. Thankfully however, there is a very simple solution. Get up and walk around. If you’re required to sit in front of a computer at work, make sure you take every opportunity to be on your feet. You can even insist on performing certain tasks standing up, such as answering the telephone. Whatever you do, don’t stay seated for long.
Exercise
Exercise is necessary for a healthy lifestyle and can also be effective in avoiding back problems. By strengthening the muscles around the spine and in the abdominal region, you decrease the pressure on your back and reduce the potential for injury. Regular exercise will also prevent you from becoming overweight, a condition which puts further strain on your back and increases the likelihood of experiencing problems. As well as exercise, stretching can help to reduce stiffness, another cause of back pain.
Although these are by no means the only causes of back pain, they are some of the most common mistakes which can lead to its manifestation. By following the advice above, your back will be in much better condition and your chances of experiencing back pain greatly reduced. Find the best Back Pain Bristol Chiropractic Clinic here!