For a healthy back follow these simple guidelines to keep your spine in good share.
1. Standing
Keeping one foot forward of the other, with knees slightly bent, takes the pressure off the low back.
2. Sitting
Sitting with your knees slightly higher than your hips provides good low back support.
3. Reaching
Stand on a stool to reach things that are above shoulder level.
4. 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.
5. 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
6. 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.
7. Sleeping
Sleeping on your back puts 55 pounds (25 kilos) 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.
8. Weight Control
Additional weight puts a strain on your back.Keep within 10 pounds (5 kilos) of your ideal weight for a healthier back.
9. Stop Smoking
Smokers are more prone to back pain than non-smokers because nicotine restricts the flow of blood to the discs that cushion your vertebrae.
10. Minor Back Pain
Always listen to your body, Deal with minor back pain as soon as it arises, consult the clinic if you are unsure of what your symptoms mean.
The more you know, the better chance you have of avoiding back pain-which affects 80% of the adult population and is the second most common reason people visit their doctors. If you have back pain or want to know how to avoid it, call the clinic to speak to one of our Chiropractors.