Helpful knowledge for proper spinal health

The spine is possibly one of the most important parts of the human body. It supports the body, helps us walk and even aids simple actions like sitting up in bed. That’s why it’s imperative that we look after our spines.

Typically, the spine is also one of the most fragile components of the body and one simple accident or injury can lead to a life of pain and difficulties with movement. So, to help you take better care of your back, here is some helpful tips for proper spinal health.

Exercise and diet will always help

Many people don’t exercise because it’s hard work. Sometimes, it can be boring. However, failing to exercise regularly can and will weaken the joints at the base of your back as well as putting you at risk of discs slipping out of place. Keep up a regular exercise regime and be sure to do some gentle back exercises regularly to keep it at optimal strength.

What’s exercise without eating healthy too? Changing your diet to a healthier one can help aid your exercise regiment and possibly even drop a few pounds, not to mention the other health benefits.

Recognize why you’re in pain…

…so that you can apply the best course of treatment. Back pain can stem from all sorts of places such as:

• Being overweight: Your spine can only take so much weight and if you’re putting more pressure than it can handle on it, you will be in pain. Consider losing some weight to help relieve your back problems and of course, bring many other health benefits.
  
• A car accident: Even if the accident you were involved in seemed harmless, the spine is delicate and yours could have been affected. It’s important to clue yourself up on car accident laws and how to approach a situation like this if you feel that’s the cause of your back pain.
  
• Medical conditions: For some, medical conditions such as psoriatic arthritis can cause joint pain and that includes your back. If you suffer from any medical conditions that could be contributing to your pain, it’s important to see your doctor right away so that you can begin a suitable treatment regimen.
  
• Injuries, on and off the job: A simple injury can be caused by lifting something too heavy or twisting too abruptly. It might sound silly but this can cause long term back pain, so visit your general practitioner or physiotherapist for treatment.

There are, of course, many other reasons as to why you might be experiencing back pain, but these are among the common causes that you should look out for.

Your mattress can give you back problems

You may be wondering how you can manage to damage your spine while you’re sleeping, but more often than not your mattress could be the cause or at least a contributor to your back problems.

Did you know that it’s recommended you change your mattress at least once every eight years? Not only will you sleep more soundly, but you’ll experience fewer back problems, so consider changing your mattress.

Change the way you sit and stand

Many people slouch when they are sitting or standing without even realizing it, and it can cause serious damage to the spine. Take a look at your posture to see if this could be the cause of the pain you’re in and if it is, make some changes.

You can buy back supports for your desk chair that can help change the way you sit. There are also techniques you can use to ensure that you’re standing correctly and not putting unnecessary pressure on your back.

Don’t forget to rest

Don’t forget to rest! Our backs take a lot of pressure day in and day out without us even thinking about it, and making sure that you get plenty of rest so that your back can relax and properly recover.