10 Tips for a Healthy Back
Worried about hurting your back this Holiday season? Follow these simple guidelines to keep your back in good shape (North American Spine Society –www.spine.org):
Standing:
- Keeping one foot forward of the other, with knees slightly bent, takes the pressure off your low back.
Sitting:
- Sitting with your knees slightly higher than your hips provides good low back support.
Reaching:
- Stand on a stool to reach things that are above your shoulder level.
Moving heavy items:
- Pushing is easier on your back than pulling. Use your arms and legs to start the push. If you must lift a heavy item, get someone to help you.
Lifting:
- Kneel down on one knee with the other foot flat on the floor, as near as possible to the item you are lifting. Lift with your legs, not your back, keeping the object close to your body at all times.
Carrying:
- Two small objects (one in either hand) may be easier to handle than one large one. If you must carry one large object, keep it close to your body.
Sleeping:
- Sleeping on your back puts 55 pounds of pressure on your back. Putting a couple of pillows under your knees cuts the pressure in half. Lying on your side with a pillow between your knees also reduces the pressure.
Weight control:
- Additional weight puts a strain on your back. Keep within 10 pounds of your ideal weight for a healthier back.
Quit smoking:
- Smokers are more prone to back pain than nonsmokers because nicotine restricts the flow of blood to the discs that cushion your vertebrae.
Minor back pain:
- Treat minor back pain with anti-inflammatories such as ibuprofen and gentle stretching, followed by an ice pack.
Also Read
Health Risk of Sitting Too Long
Already in the donut hole?
4 Easy Healthy Eating Tips
Synvisc Injection for Osteoarthritis
Fitness or Fatness? Which effects blood pressure more?
