Many people are blighted by back pain and this can have a massive impact on your quality of life and makes even the most simple, routine activities difficult and agonising. While you cannot perform miracles, like so many things in life, it you look after your back now, you can potentially lower your chances of developing problems later in life.
We have had a look at some of the preventative steps you can take to keep your back healthy, and they are pretty good things to do for general wellbeing too.
Keep your posture in check
Remember at school your teachers would tell you to stand up tall? Well it was for good reason. It is important to keep your back straight, whether you are sitting or standing, and try to avoid slouching forward or leaning back, as this won’t help matters. When you are standing, stand tall and proud, and make sure your ear, mid-shoulder, hip, mid-knee and ankle are aligned.
Sleep well
Having good posture isn’t only important when you are awake, but while you sleep too. We would suggest not sleeping on your tummy, because this puts extra pressure on your spine. Sleeping on your side, is better for your back and generally helps give you sleep better. It is also vital that your mattress is fit for purpose and we would suggest that if you have had yours for quite a while, and it is saggy and lumpy, you get a new one that gives you the support you need. Firm pillows are also a good idea, but try before you buy so you find one that works for you and your body.
Don’t stop moving
Whether you work-out at the gym, ride your bike or play netball a couple of times a week, it is important to keep your body moving if you want to maintain a healthy back. Combining stretching exercises, yoga or Pilates, with physical exercise, can help keep your back strong and will also give you the chance to unwind.
Look at how you work
Many of us sit at a desk for hours every day, and that can put stress on your back, so make sure your workspace is set up for your needs. Find a chair that provides good back support, keep your knees at 90-degrees and make sure you can rest your feet on the floor with ease. You don’t want to sit in the same position for a long time as this can cause your muscles to stiffen and your back to become sore, so take regular breaks away from your screen and stretch things out while you wait for the kettle to boil.
Drink water
We say this a lot, and today we are going to say it again. Spinal discs are vulnerable to hydration loss and this can lead to herniated or slipped discs, so make sure you drink plenty of water each day to keep soft tissue elastic, and joints fluid.
Have a massage
Every now an again, have a massage with a professional therapist. Not only will this give you some time out, but it will also help to ease stress and tension in your back, neck and shoulders.
Keep an eye on your weight
Being overweight or obese will influence many aspects of your health and this includes you back because excess weight puts pressure on muscles, ligaments and tendons. Maintain a constant healthy weight by combining exercise with a healthy, balanced diet.
As you can see, many of the steps you can take to help keep your back healthy, are common sense and if you put them into play now, they may well benefit all areas of your life in the future – which has to be a good thing?
Team Pure Beauty
Last updated on 17/02/2019.