Many are affected by back pain every day. And aside from living with the pain, this can diminish your quality of life. Back pain might cause you to miss work and prevent you from being able to accomplish everyday tasks. Minor back muscle strains quickly improve on their own. However, more severe back muscle strains will need physiotherapy. Taking care of your spine will help you lower the chances of experiences back pain later. So how do you prevent spinal problems? Here are 5 things you can do to keep your spine strong:
1. Sleeping Well
Sleeping well is important to your health. Your body needs a good night’s sleep to repair itself. Sleep on your side rather than on your stomach. Sleeping on your side reduces upper airway collapse and give you a better night’s rest. And sleeping on your stomach puts too much pressure on your spine.
2. Lifting Right
Lifting right will prevent damage to your spine. It’s easy to twist the wrong way when you’re lifting an object. Therefore, it’s important to use proper form to prevent damages. You should stand as close to the object as you can and use your legs and knees to pull up the object. Bend your knees so your arms are at the same height as the object and keep your head down and back straight.
3. Stretching Out
Stretch every day to help your back and neck. It can be invigorating and promote spinal health. Therefore, it’s important to stay flexible in order to maintain normal joint function and a good range of motion. In addition, stretching out will help to reduce the risk of injury. So start your day with a couple of good stretches.
4. Staying Active
How active are you? Do you go to the gym? Do you play recreational sports? If you’re not active or physically fit, you’re at an increased risk of experiencing low back pain. Stay active and keep your body moving to help maintain a healthy spine by going to the gym, walking, biking, or swimming.
5. Maintaining A Healthy Weight
Along with staying active, it’s also important to maintain a healthy weight. Being obese or overweight are risk factors for low back pain. Excess weight can put added stress on muscles, ligaments, and tendons in your lower back.
