Saving Your Spine One Tip at a Time

By Brandi Goodman 

Your spine suffers or benefits depending on what it is you're doing. Sit slouched or avoid exercise, and your spine is going to suffer. Sit with proper posture and keep your back strong, and your spine will see the benefits. With some tips in mind, you can save your spine and keep it healthy and thriving. 

Strengthen Your Back Through Exercise

You know you need to exercise. It's told to you time and time again. Not many people give further explanation, though. You should be focusing on back-strengthening exercises and options that engage your core. This will really help with spine strength, calorie-burning, and weight management. 

Take Regular Walks

Walking is such a simple activity, and yet it brings such major benefits. Your spine will especially benefit if you're taking regular walks and working to improve your physicality. Your balance, flexibility, and muscles that help keep you upright will all reach peak performance when add walking to your daily routine.

Get a New Pillow

Your pillow should be replaced every two years -- at least. It's really wise to switch it out every year or so. You should also get a new pillow based on how you sleep. If you tend to sleep on your side, a thicker option may work well to keep your head at the right angle in correlation to your spine. You'll also want a second pillow between your knees for added comfort. If you end up on your back throughout the night, a pillow with flat to medium thickness will be required so your head isn't too far forward, harming your spine. You can also place something underneath your legs to keep your body properly aligned.

Always Consider Your Posture

No matter where you are, or what you're doing, you need to consider your posture at all times. It can make a huge difference in how your spine feels after. Always sit and stand upright and avoid slouching to the side or hunching over. Keep your head looking forward when you're looking at devices, and not down. You'll quickly get a kink in your neck if you don't. Use lumbar support for your back when you're sitting at a table or desk -- or even in the car on a long drive. 

Always keep these tips in mind so you can have a strong spine. You'll be glad you did when you see just how good your back can feel without all the pain and discomfort that comes along with improper posture, a lack of exercise, and your spine struggling. 

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

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