Healthy Habits for Your Spine
By Sara Butler
Seeing the chiropractors at The Joint is one way to ensure your spine is healthy and your body is functioning optimally, but it’s not the only thing you can do. In fact, there are many healthy habits that will help to support the work you and your chiropractor do to help you attain good health. Here are a few of the things you can do outside your time with the chiropractor to help!
Get a Good Night’s Rest
You need to get a good amount of sleep each night to ensure your body has the time it needs to fully rest and regenerate, but it’s not all about how much you sleep. You also need to pay attention to how you sleep.
Your mattress needs to support your body properly. Often, people sleep on mattresses far past their expiration dates. Most mattresses will only guarantee proper support for about eight years, so make sure to check the manufacturer's recommendations for replacement.
It’s also essential to find a pillow that supports your neck in a neutral position. Your head should not be lifted above your body or sink down below -- you should have a straight line from your hips to the top of your head. You can also use pillows to help support your knees and hips. If you’re unsure how, then discuss it with your chiropractor!
Stay Hydrated
Hydration is one of those things that many people misunderstand the importance of. It means a lot more than simply being thirsty since your body needs water to work properly; your spine needs it for proper support too. The cartilage between the bones of your spine needs water to help cushion. If they’re deprived of water, they also won’t get the nutrients they need to stay healthy and that can result in back pain for you! Keep your body hydrated and your spine will stay happy and healthy!
Keep Your Body Moving
Exercise is an important part of an overall plan for healthy living. Strong muscles help to support your spine properly, allowing you a full range of motion and balance. Plus, staying at a healthy weight is good for your spine and will reduce your chances of experiencing back pain in the future.
If you have questions or concerns about your spinal health, ask the chiropractors at The Joint!
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Magnolia, Tex.