Can Daily Stretching Help Your Back?

By Randi Morse

There is nothing fun about waking up and rolling out of bed only to find that your back is so sore you can't help but groan. I know I've woken up many times and have wondered what I could have possibly done the day before to warrant having such annoying back pain. The good news is that it's possible to use preventative measures to help keep your back feeling healthy and strong. 

Make Sure You Stretch

Do you remember when you were in grade school and high school and your physical education teacher always told you to stretch? The same was likely true if you were in any sort of sport. Stretching is extremely important no matter what age you are. Stretching helps your joints, muscles, and tendons get ready for the day. It can help release any stress or tension your body has. If you spend just 10 minutes stretching every morning, you can help prevent back pain. If you already have back pain, stretching may help alleviate some of the pain. Simple back and neck stretches are always helpful, just make sure you don't stretch until it's painful. A little pulling is fine with stretching but if you're feeling pain, stop your stretching motion.

Footwear

I've never been someone who has loved designer shoes, but shoes are extremely important, and it turns out that the more comfortable and supportive your shoes are, the less chance you have of having back issues. According to chiropractors, high heels should not be worn unless absolutely necessary. If you must wear a heel, try to keep it under two inches tall. When you wear heels, your natural stride is thrown off; this can cause your joints to have alignment issues which can pull everything out of whack. Chiropractors also agree that it's a good idea to switch shoes every six months if you are wearing them frequently. 

If you are already suffering from back pain, come see a chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic. The Joint Chiropractic offers open office hours and affordable rates so that you can come in, have your back assessed and, if necessary, a treatment plan worked out. Once you get your back into tip-top shape you can then start stretching every morning to help keep it healthy.

To learn more about your health, wellness and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Humble, Tex.