It is the support, the trunk of your body, a balanced system that keeps you standing tall. We are talking about your spine of course! The spine is what keeps your body standing in alignment, but it also is the main protector of your spinal cord, one of the key components of your nervous system. This structure is also flexible to allow for free movement and sometimes it's easy to forget just how special and how much our spine provides for us. Let's take a closer look at some ways we can take better care of our spine.
Stretch and Strengthen The Back
Taking the time to do a few stretches everyday can really help maintain and control back pain. For some ideas, check out our home exercise sheets, but remember, this is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.
Take Care with Heavy Lifting
The act of bending to lift a heavy load places a large strain on the spine. Use correct technique when lifting: Keep the back straight, bend the knees, and recruit the power of the legs to complete the lift.
Stay in Motion
Remaining in one position for an extended time is hard on the spine - especially constant sitting. Keep the spine activated - for example, if you must sit for long periods at work, take frequent breaks. Move around, walk, and occasionally exercise or stretch to keep your back flexible and limber.
Get Into The Water
Water therapy can play a very helpful role in alleviating back issues, especially for older patients or those who experience severe discomfort with a land-based approach. Water exercise can be an effective way to build strength and confidence, and pave the way for more traditional land-based physical therapy.
Get An Adjustment
Take the time to set up an appointment for an adjustment. Adjustments are a non-invasive form of treatment. Adjustments help relieve neck and back pain, and help put the spine in a better position to promote healing. For more information on adjustments, check out our website.
Seek a Doctor’s Advice
It makes sense to seek medical attention when neck or back pain is persistent, if it flares up regularly or never fully dissipates. See if a licensed and trained chiropractor like the ones from BC + PT can help you figure out your back and neck pain. Have you already consulted a medical practitioner and have a prescription for physical therapy, no worries we can handle that as well. If you have been experiencing pain or recently had an injury that is affecting your quality of life, then it is time to give BC + PT a call to schedule an appointment!