How to Attain a Healthy Spine
By Sara Butler
Most people don't spend a lot of time each day thinking about their spine. In fact, as long as you can keep doing your day-to-day activities without issue, then you probably don't give your spine any thought at all. It's when back pain strikes that the spine can become something in the forefront of your mind, either due to pain or from various other issues that spinal problems can create.
There are things you can do each day to help you attain a healthy spine. Here are some proven strategies from the chiropractors at The Joint Chiropractic that can help.
A Healthy Lifestyle
To care for your spine, a healthy lifestyle is essential. That means that you should make a healthy diet and exercise a priority in your life as you work toward achieving and maintaining a healthy weight, strengthening the muscles in your core that support your spine, stretching before and after your workouts, and regularly getting physical exercise.
You should also work on quitting smoking if you currently smoke, as smoking reduces your body's ability to heal due to restricted blood flow. There's been a link established between smoking and increased back pain, which is something to be aware of if you're a smoker.
Sleep Better
How are your sleep habits? You should be striving to get between seven and nine hours of sleep each night. Also, you should make sure your body is well supported no matter what position you like to sleep in. Strategically placed pillows can help, so talk to the chiropractors at The Joint for some pillow tips to help you in your preferred sleeping position.
Practice Good Posture
Your grandmother may have had a lot to say about your posture, but she wasn't wrong -- posture is important. When you stand you should make sure your stance is in line with proper posture techniques so that you don't place undue stress on your spine and the same goes for when you sit or lay down. You should also use proper technique when lifting, using the power in your legs and hips to lift and never your back. Keep anything you carry close to your body to help spread the weight and not place too much pressure on your back.
Your spine takes good care of you and allows you the freedom to move through your day. So make sure you take care of it and keep your spine healthy with the help of the chiropractors at The Joint.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in San Jose, Calif.