How to Enjoy Fashion Without Sabotaging Your Back
By Sandy Schroeder
Most of us know wearing high heels can be tough on our backs, but it turns out there are many more fashions that threaten the spine.
Whenever we test the back, neck or shoulders with clothes, bags or shoes that are tight, stiff, or too heavy, we may harm the spine and create back pain, according to the American Chiropractic Association.
Here are some of the biggest offenders.
Tight jeans – If you have just lost a few pounds, you may want to shimmy into a new pair of snug jeans, but pants that limit the movement of hips, thighs or knees will affect your walk and stress your joints. Choose ones that fit, but don’t threaten your back.
Chunky jewelry – Fashion statements are often made with stunning outsized necklaces, but keep an eye on your posture and avoid wearing them for long periods of time. They can pull your body forward into a damaging slump.
Minimal tops – Slim little bras and halters may be appealing, but the lack of support may strain the shoulders and the back. Look for ones with support.
Supersized fashion bags – Most of us believe “the bigger the better” when it comes to totes. Everything fits and it looks great, but the load on the shoulder and the back may not be worth it. Look for wide double straps that spread the weight. Using a single strap automatically causes the body to lift one shoulder to manage the weight. Do a quick check of of your tote to pare it down and still enjoy the look.
Skinny skirts – When you slip into a pencil skirt you may love the look but hate the resulting back pain. Gradually, skinny skirts pull the legs together, limiting movement and pressuring the muscles and discs in the back.
Slimming shapewear – Dropping a size when you don’t have time to lose the weight works with shapewear. However, if you are tempted to look even slimmer, extreme effects can cause loss of range of motion and muscle soreness. Use your shapewear when you want to look your best, but start backing it up with the loss of a few pounds.
How Your Chiropractor Can Help
As you weed out the offenders, do yourself another favor and stop by The Joint Chiropractic clinic near you. The Joint’s licensed chiropractors always have the best answers for health, wellness and fitness.
When you come in, you can get to know your chiropractor and find out why everyone is talking about chiropractic’s benefits now. Natural whole person spinal health always works in your favor without prescription medications or surgery.
Stop by The Joint Chiropractic clinic near you to find out more about their affordable personal healthcare plans and flexible weekend and evening hours. No appointments are needed. See you there.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in San Jose, Calif.