A Woman's Guide to Spinal Health
By Sara Butler
Back pain is a common problem for a lot of people – including women. In fact, according to the American Chiropractic Association, you have an 80 percent chance of back pain during your lifetime. That’s a sobering statistic and one that everyone should take seriously. For women, there are often special spinal problems seen by chiropractors at The Joint. These problems can impede normal daily routines and activities – including work. Here’s what every woman should know about her spinal health.
Look at Your Shoes
A lot of women wear heels. Just look around and notice how many pairs of high heels you see clicking down the street each day. While the perfect pair of pumps can complete nearly any outfit, it does come at a price – your spinal health. High heels can have a negative impact on the spine, the hips, the knees, the ankles, and the feet. They throw the center of gravity forward and cause your body to shift in a way that’s not natural. The best shoes for women concerned for spinal health are flats that give support to the arch of the foot. When shopping for shoes, look for:
- A heel no higher than two inches
- A shoe that allows you to walk with a normal gait
- Avoid thin straps
You should also make sure any shoe you choose is well padded to provide cushion; even if you continue to wear heels, give your feet a break at least a couple of days a week!
Handbags
Women carry handbags for convenience, but they are a source of spinal issues! A heavy bag being carried on just one side of the body is a great way to bring on back pain. This is due to the fact that the body must compensate for the excess load, putting stress and strain on the shoulders, neck, and spine. They also encourage poor posture. When carrying a handbag you should:
- Choose one in proportion to your body size
- Never carry a bag heavier than 10 percent of your body weight
- Switch sides frequently
- Buy a cross body bag
- Clean it out frequently
- Maintain good posture
You can prevent injury if you pay attention to just how heavy your handbag gets!
If you have questions for preventing back pain then discuss them with your chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic!
To learn more about your health and wellness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Spring, Tex.