How You Can Avoid Back Injuries
By Sara Butler
Avoiding back injuries is something you hold the power of in your own hands. While it may be true that some back injuries occur from unexpected events such as a car accident or a fall, most back injuries are caused by things you do every day. That's why the chiropractors at The Joint Chiropractic want you to take measures to prevent them from happening in the first place -- or to stop injuries from getting worse. Here are a few chiropractic tips to help you get started.
Lift Yourself Up
Perfecting your lifting technique is one easy way you can keep your back healthy and free from injury. When you lift using the proper technique, you keep your spine in alignment and use the muscles in your hips and legs to do the lifting, not your back.
To lift properly, bend your knees and keep your back straight as you use the power of your legs and hips to lift. Your back is simply not designed to bear the stress placed on it by lifting heavy objects. If you lift incorrectly, then you're taking a big chance of making an existing joint dysfunction or restriction worse.
If you're curious about the proper way to lift, then discuss it with the chiropractors at The Joint. They'll be happy to show you!
Manage Your Body Sensibly
You should always think about the health of your back when performing everyday tasks. This can help you to avoid back injuries. So make sure to stretch before you do any physical activity, including things such as working in your garden or taking your dog for a walk.
You should also make sure to keep your body in good condition. Work to maintain a healthy weight in order to help alleviate stress and strain on your spine. Also, work to strengthen the muscles that help to support your spine.
Sleeping is another way you can manage your body sensibly. Make sure you have a mattress that's supportive and that you sleep in a position that helps you to maintain a neutral spine. Avoid sleeping on your stomach. If you need more help with your sleeping position, talk to the chiropractors at The Joint.
Don't Let Injuries Linger
If something doesn't feel right, don't ignore it. Make sure to get checked out by a chiropractor to check you for joint restrictions and dysfunctions as well as injuries that can get worse if not addressed.
Talk to the chiropractor at The Joint today if you have a back injury you need to discuss.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in San Jose, Calif.