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It’s amazing how much the human spine is responsible for.
Your spine is your support system and is the foundation for every movement you make. It also gives you the ability to move, sleep, and function. This is why everyday tasks often seem complex and, in some cases, even impossible with an injured spine.
Unfortunately, people rarely take care of their spines. In fact, studies show that 1 in every 5 teenagers exhibits some signs of degeneration within the spinal discs.
To keep your spine healthy, you should:
Stretch Regularly and Exercise Your Core
Stretching is key to a healthy spine. Keep in mind that the spine is made of 33 vertebrae which are connected by connective tissue, so stretching plays a vital role in keeping it healthy. Light exercise, which strengthens the back and spinal muscles, is also recommended.
Avoid Ego Lifting
Ego lifting is when someone attempts to lift weights beyond what their body can handle. It increases your chances of developing spinal problems because it exerts excessive pressure on the spinal disks. This then squeezes them too hard on one side and stretches too much on the other.
However, when done correctly, lifting weights can strengthen your spine.
Swim Often
Swimming is a form of water therapy. It works on the back muscles consistently and rhythmically, which helps prevent back pain. Water therapy is especially beneficial for older patients who might experience discomfort with land-based exercises.
Maintain a Healthy Weight
Being overweight can place a lot of stress on the spine, injuring it or making the existing issues even worse. The excess weight may also alter the natural curve of the spine and make the spinal disk pinched or herniated.
Wear Shoes with Good Support
If you are on your feet a lot, the shoes you wear play an essential role in supporting your back. The best shoes should be comfortable and offer a supportive base to help the spine and body align.
Visit a Doctor
Visiting a doctor is vital when taking care of your spine health. You can do it as a precaution or when you start experiencing persistent neck or back pain. If there is a deeper issue, your primary health provider will refer you to the chiropractic department, where they will manage your back or neck pain by performing spinal adjustments.
Try to Stand as Much as Possible
Standing desks have become quite popular in the workplace, and it’s not hard to see why. Sitting consistently makes it challenging to maintain good spine alignment.
Try Yoga
Practicing yoga regularly stretches & strengthens muscles and ligaments that support the back & spine. If you’re a beginner, start with light poses to avoid injuring the spine and making any existing issues worse.
Take Care of Your Spine!
Here’s a shocking stat: around 80% of people globally will experience spinal problems in their lives.
Contrary to popular belief, spinal health deterioration doesn't only impact old people. It's sometimes common among teens, and it can be quite painful in the severe stages. It can also significantly impact the quality of your life if not treated early.
Don't wait until it’s too late. Consult NJ Institute for Pain Relief today!