Common Ways to Wreck Your Back

Back pain may seem inevitable, especially if you have a preexisting condition or family history of back problems. Many consider it a normal part of their daily life and have grown accustomed to adjusting their life and activities as needed. However, you may have more control than you think to eliminating back pain and improving your quality of life.

There are certain bad habits and techniques, such as a weak core and poor posture that could make your back vulnerable to injury. By making a few simple adjustments and visiting your local Keller pain management chiropractor, you could get back to enjoying life as you knew it before back pain.

Please read on to learn the common ways to wreck your back and the simple tips to implement to keep injury from occurring. If you are interested in scheduling a consultation with a Keller pain management professional, please contact Doyle Chiropractic & Acupuncture today online or by calling 817-767-5430.

Poor Posture

Sitting at your desk or in your car for long periods of time with shoulders hunched over, or your neck bent over a computer screen can do serious long-term damage to the natural curvature of your spine. Although your job may involve a lengthy commute and long days at the office, it’s important to practice good posture and proper ergonomics when sitting to help your spine stay healthy. Every 20 minutes, change your position, or get up and walk around and stretch your body.

The discs between your vertebrae are spongy and filled with fluid, specifically designed to cushion your spine during activity. However, when you are immobile for prolonged periods, the fluid in your disc drains and increases your risk for injury. Discs in your spine rely on motion to keep the fluid properly functioning.

Improper Exercise Techniques

Although exercise is good for your body and emotional health, if you are lifting weights or performing exercises incorrectly, it can wreck your back. If something hurts out of the ordinary while you are working out, stop and make the necessary adjustments. It may be beneficial to have a spotter at the gym to make sure you are lined up correctly so you don’t cause severe injury. Even low impact exercises, such as yoga can cause injury if you do not have your spine lined up correctly. While it may not hurt initially, if performed incorrectly, you will slowly cause problems. Working out in front of mirror will help you make the necessary adjustments to avoid injuring yourself. Focusing on building up your core strength and keeping it engaged during activity will also help alleviate the pressure on back.

Lifting Incorrectly

Many people lift objects or bend over incorrectly and unknowingly cause stress to their backs. If your job requires strenuous lifting or activity, there are a few tips to follow to keep your back healthy:

• Do not lift or move something that weighs 20 percent more than you.
• Keep your back straight and bend with your knees, not at your waist.
• Hold the heavy object close to you and not away from you.
• Do not hold the object lower than your knees or higher than your armpits.
• When lifting, do not twist or turn your back – keep the object and your feet always pointing in the same direction.

Don’t Ignore Back Pain

If you are currently experiencing back pain and need pain relievers to make it through the day, it may be time to consider meeting with a Keller pain management professional to find the root of the issue. Dr. Doyle provides chiropractic care, acupuncture, physical therapy, and other techniques to address back pain and improve the health of your spine.

To schedule your consultation with Keller pain management chiropractor Dr. Doyle, please contact our office today online or by calling 817-767-5430.