Being proactive is important when it comes to your health. You go to the doctor regularly. You exercise. You maintain a healthy weight. What if you could be proactive to protect your spine? It’s estimated that almost 80% of Americans will experience low back pain. Be proactive about your spine health with our tips:

  • Keep it Low
    Low-impact exercises such as walking, swimming, and yoga are great ways to strengthen your spine. Doing these exercises on a regular basis not only increases your strength but is a great way to maintain a healthy weight, another tip for being proactive in your spine health.
  • Focus on the Core
    Stabilize your spine by strengthening your core muscles. These are the muscles that surround and support the spinal column. As well as supporting the spinal column, these muscles also help in stabilizing and minimizing compressive forces on the spine, forces which often contribute to back pain. Check out our previous blog on core strengthening.
  • Practice Posture
    Head straight, flat back, feet on the ground with a slight bend in your knees if you are sitting. You may know what good posture is, but do you practice it? Bad posture causes a strain on your back, affects circulation and can lead to severe back pain.Are you sitting at an office desk slouched over most of the time? This can take a huge toll on your spine. Check out our tips on office posture.
  • Be Careful When You Lift
    Lift with your legs, not with your back. Make sure when lifting heavy objects that your feet are planted on the ground and squat down. Avoid twisting and turning your spine by leading with your hips and feet, taking it slow.
  • Travel Safely
    Whether you sit in the car long hours during the day or are going on a road trip, protect your back right in the car seat. Check out our tips to travel safely.
  • Sleep Well
    Sleep should be restful, not painful.  The best sleep positions would be on your neck or on your back. Not laying on a stack of pillows which can cause unnecessary strains, find one fluffy pillow that is comfortable and supportive.

With these tips, you can be proactive in keeping your spine healthy! Are you already experiencing back pain? Schedule an appointment with one of our spine specialists!