Back pain can affect anyone and prevent you from functioning throughout your everyday routine. The causes of back pain are endless; however, the most common injuries can be prevented. From picking up the kids, to overdrive at the office, we want to help you get back in action for your fall schedule.
Sports
When you are trying to swing like Tiger Woods or pass like James Harden, make sure to stretch and exercise properly before, during and after your sport of choice. Sports that involve twisting, like golf, and large forces of impact, like basketball, are more prone to back pain. Even hard labor like cleaning out the garage or gardening can be equally back-breaking activities. Prevent this by exercising and strengthening your core muscles. Even switching out a desk chair for an exercise ball could help strengthen your back muscles.
Improper Lifting
Lifting heavy objects using your back can lead to back injury. The proper technique is to “lift with your legs, not your back.” Whether you’re helping someone move in or redecorating, you can prevent this by keeping your back straight and bending at the knees. Keep the object close to your body and avoid twisting when lifting. To prevent strain, it is advised to never lift something heavy above your armpit or below your knees, and never move something over 20% of your body weight.
Mindlessness During Daily Chores
Being distracted by everyday tasks can make you forget how to properly lift with your back and lead to more injuries simply because of absent mindedness or fatigue. Back pain doesn’t have to be caused by heavy lifting or exaggerated movement. Core exercises can also help strengthen your abs and your back.
Sitting All Day
Sitting in traffic, at your desk and later on the couch prevent fluid from circulating in your spine. Your back gets more stress from sitting, especially sitting and leaning forward, and leads to pressure on your disc. To prevent this, get up and move every 20 minutes when you are at the office or at home, and make sure your back is kept straight with reading material at eye level in a back-supporting chair.
Most back pain goes away in a couple days with pain relievers, however if you find it lasting longer, associated with loss of bladder/bowel control, or pain below the waist make an appointment with your doctor. Even if you practice prevention, we know emergencies can happen at any moment. Neighbors is here for your 24/7/365. Visit nec24.com to find a Neighbors Emergency Center near you!