Avoid Back Pain This Spring & Summer
The summer is the perfect time to take on fun activities and home improvement projects. In fact, after a long winter, many people are itching to get outside and do something. However, don’t let your enthusiasm for summer get the best of you and your back. Follow these helpful tips to avoid back pain and injuries this season.
Don’t Do Too Much Too Soon
Whether you want to start working out or want to tackle that large DIY project this summer, ease into it. There is no need to do everything in one or two days. Instead, start out with a little activity and build up to it. Be sure to stretch before and after a workout, project, or heavy lifting. Remember, just one day of overdoing it can have you on the couch for the rest of the summer.
Take Breaks
Remember to take breaks and to stay hydrated when you are doing outdoor activities. Depending on how large the project is, break it up into manageable pieces to complete over a few days. Another good idea is to wear back support if you know you will be doing more manual work than you are used to.
Don’t Wear Flip Flops
We know flip flops are the essential foot wear of the season, but they are not the best choice for back pain. Flip flops do not offer enough support for your feet, which can cause your back to ache after a few hours of wearing them. Instead, find sandals or tennis shoes that support the arch of your foot and keep your back healthy. You can still enjoy flip flops for the occasional trip to the beach or for walking around the pool.
Golf Bag Blues
While golfing may be a great summer activity, it can wreak havoc on your back. A golf bag is too heavy for most people to carry throughout the whole day, especially on one shoulder. Carrying something heavy on one side of the body will compromise your posture and put your back at risk for misalignment and injury. Instead, use a wheeling golf bag or use a cart.
Take a Pain Free Vacation
Summer is a great time to get away for a bit. However, whether you are taking your trip by plane, train, or automobile, back pain is sure to be close behind. Make sure to take several breaks from sitting to do a quick walk and stretch. For those who are in a car, it may be harder to take frequent stops, but you can still do a few stretches while driving, such as pelvic tilts. You can also roll up a towel or sweater and stick it in the natural arch of your back to help prevent back pain.
Summer is full of many adventures; don’t let back pain be part of that adventure. Remember to always listen to your body when doing a new or rigorous activity. If something does happen to your back, be sure to visit the chiropractor as soon as possible. There is no need to be stuck on the couch this fine season with back pain any longer than you have to be!
Always consult your chiropractor or primary care physician for all your health related advice.
Story Credit, Image Credit: summer is finally here by Steve Wilson. Used under a Creative Commons license.