Do You Have a Binge-Watching Backache?
By Sara Butler
Netflix and chill sounds like a great idea when you want to relax. The problem with all the time you devote to Netflix and chilling contributes to an already sedentary lifestyle. Let's face it, you may have spent most of your time sitting at work only to come home and sit some more in front of your television -- not exactly a recipe for good health. Throw in how you're sitting on your couch and watching the television and you can see how this can contribute to back pain. Here's what the chiropractors at The Joint Chiropractic want you to know about all that television watching and what you can do to help keep your back healthy.
How are You Sitting?
Think about it: How do you sit when you watch television? Do you slouch or lay in a way that puts a strain on your back, hips, or shoulders? Let's face it, unwinding after a long day in front of the boob tube shouldn't take a lot of effort, but it also shouldn't leave you in pain or discomfort afterward.
How to Stay Healthy
There are a few actions you can take to preserve your spinal health as you prepare for a new season of Stranger Things by re-watching the entire series. It's not realistic to tell you to avoid the television altogether, so make sure when watching that you:
- Take breaks - Between episodes or during commercial breaks, get up and walk around. Go get a glass of water or stand up and do a few simple stretches. Even just walking in place every 30 to 60 minutes can help.
- Think about posture - It's easy to zone out when you're watching your favorite show, but you must make an effort to make good posture a habit. Your shoulders should be relaxed, as well as your back, and your head should be level and looking straight ahead. If you have to tilt your head up or down to watch, that's a recipe for neck, shoulder, and back pain.
- Reduce the time you sit - Try to kill two birds with one stone when watching your favorite show. Perhaps use the time to fold laundry or do the ironing. Anything that keeps you moving as you watch is a good idea.
How the Chiropractor Can Help
If you're experiencing the side effects of any recent television binge-watching, then you need to see a chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic. They can perform an assessment and get to the bottom of what may be causing your pain and discomfort.
If you need help fixing your sedentary lifestyle, talk to a chiropractor at The Joint today!
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Austin, Tex.