Spine complications like spinal stenosis, herniated disc, or strained muscles are common and often painful. Although several factors that cause the complications like aging are out of your hands, there are others you can avoid. The McNulty Spine specialists encourage healthy lifestyle choices, including exercises and good posture, to decrease the chances of back complications. Your spine works every day; preserving its well-being is a lifetime commitment. Working with your doctor can help you discover ways to keep the spine strong and healthy. Here are some key points to note.
Rest Your Spine Properly While Sleeping
Your spine only takes a break when you lie down, and you must ensure you make the most of that time. However, many back complications have also been attributed to poor sleeping posture. You will need a good pillow and a comfortable mattress to sleep better and rest your spine. Get a medium-firm mattress to keep your spine aligned while you sleep. A soft mattress or an old one can make your spine sag, paving the way for complications. Also, consult your doctor to understand the right sleeping position for your back. Sleeping on your back is not encouraged, but you can use a pillow stack between your knees if this is your best position.
Exercise Your Core
Core exercises are crucial for your spine health. Physical activities can help strengthen your back muscles and abs, which support your spine to limit complications. It also takes the pressure off your lower back. You might not achieve core strengthening through your average daily activities and need to add an exercise routine to your schedule. Ensure you work with your physical therapist or doctor to design an exercise routine to boost your spin health.
Consider Massage
Getting a regular massage can keep you away from some spinal complications. A good massage from experts can help loosen your back muscles, improve blood flow in your spine, and flex the connective tissues. Getting massage therapy after a busy day can help you relieve stress from your spine and prevent strain issues. Also, massage therapy can help improve any symptoms like mild pain and stiffness you could be experiencing after a busy schedule.
Maintain Good Posture
Some jobs that encourage long durations of sitting or standing can cause back complications. Sitting for long durations can cause back stiffness and pain or serious issues like spine deformation. However, you can limit your sitting time by taking short breaks often during the day. Also, you can get the right equipment, like a chair with proper back support, and ensure you employ good habits when using the PC, such as elevating the monitor to your eye level.
Lift Properly
Jobs that involve much lifting increase the chances of back complications. However, you can adopt good lifting habits to preserve your spine health. First, ensure that you only lift objects when necessary. Use machinery to lift heavy objects as much as possible and ask for assistance. Also, distribute the weight to your knees by lifting your legs and not your back. Ensure you properly bend your knees to limit the joint pressure to avoid further complications.
It is difficult to complete your daily tasks with a painful back, and you should avoid complications as much as necessary. Talk to spine specialists to learn more about preserving spine health. Do not hesitate to call for help if you are experiencing back pain or other symptoms.