Harmless Activities? Maybe Not!
By Donna Stark
When you think of being injured while participating in your favorite activities, your mind probably goes straight to those morning golf games, weekend ski trips, and recreational sports games. But you don't need to be participating in extreme physical activity to get hurt! In fact, many people sustain injuries simply by sitting the wrong way. Your everyday activities and hobbies can often be the main culprit to the pain and discomfort you feel. Take a look at a few of the seemingly harmless things you do that may actually be causing significant damage to your body.
Reading Books or Studying
If you are an avid reader or a student who is constantly looking down at books and notes, you could be setting yourself up for a lot of pain in the form of headaches, muscle tension, and strains. It will make a world of difference to your body if you maintain good posture and keep your head in a neutral position while reading and studying.
Wearing Flip-Flops
In addition to getting your feet dirty and exposing them to the elements, wearing flip-flops on a regular basis can cause a number of other problems as well, such as foot instability, joint dysfunction, and pain in the knees, hips, and back. You can avoid those issues quite easily by selecting footwear that has good arch support.
Carrying a Heavy Bag
Carrying a heavy backpack, purse, or briefcase on a regular basis can create muscle imbalance in your back, neck, and shoulders and may cause significant damage to your spine. It's important to incorporate strengthening exercises into your fitness routine and take the proper precautions that will reduce the risk of injury. Here are a few suggestions.
- Switch sides often when carrying a bag on your shoulder
- Choose a crossbody purse with wide straps
- Lighten your load as much as possible
- Strap your backpack on both shoulders
- Purchase a rolling backpack for your children
Using Your Phone
By providing a world of information at your fingertips, cellphones have certainly become the must-have gadget of the century, haven't they? But information isn't the only thing they provide. Bad neck posture is one of the gifts that cellphones like to give, as well as plenty of pain and discomfort. To reduce your risk of neck, back, and head pain caused by the use of your electronic devices you need to be very mindful of your posture. Keep your head in a neutral position and bring the screen to eye level as often as you can. You can also try to use your devices less often too!
Pain-Free Days
There are sure to be consequences with your everyday activities if you aren't careful, so be mindful of your posture at all times and try to change those bad habits! It's the best way to continue enjoying your life pain-free!
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Prosper, Tex.