If you’re constantly feeling the pain of an aching back, it’s time you try and do something about it. There’s got to be a reason for your pain, and many people find that a few simple changes in lifestyle can mean all the difference when it comes to back pain. Read on to learn what you might be able to do.
1. Maintain a consistent weight. Since your back bears the brunt of most of your weight, being over your ideal body weight by just a few pounds can result in a frequent back pain. If you’re more than a little past that number, you’ve got good cause for serious back problems. Get to work bringing your weight down and you will experience less back pain right away.
2. Keep the muscles that support your back strong. All of your bones are supported by the adjoining muscles, and since the spine is so complicated, the slightest pull or weakness can mean significant pain. Keep your body in good shape, especially in the abdomen and upper leg areas, and you will be working to alleviate pain.
3. Stretch often. As soon as you wake up each morning, start stretching. Don’t contort yourself in anyway, rather, just ease your body into the day gently by reaching and bending slowly. Doing this at different intervals throughout the day will work to keep your muscles active and help your back. Sudden or strenuous activity with cold muscles means major pain, so default to your stretches whenever the need arises.
4. Pay attention to posture. Slouching or leaning to one side puts extraordinary pressure on your spine and often results in neck and shoulder pain as well. Make a conscious effort to sit in a manner conducive to your back’s design and upgrade your seating arrangements if necessary, especially if you sit at a desk all day.
5. Sleep on a quality mattress. If your bed is too hard, too soft or too worn out, your back will suffer the consequences! Purchase a decent mattress that is a medium firmness and avoid sleeping on your back. This position will put a ton of pressure on your spine in an awkward way, making you feel like you were hit by a truck come morning. Also, remember to flip your mattress regularly to keep it even and supporting you all over.
6. Wear sensible shoes. If you’ve got back pain, consider investing in some professional-strength footwear! Skip the heals, flip-lops or loafers that do nothing to support your body and get a pair of shoes designed specifically for people like you. After a day of walking around in them, your whole body should feel better and more specifically, your aching back.
If you change a few simple habits, you should be able to alleviate at least some of the back pain you are experiencing. In the event that nothing changes or your pain becomes more severe, talk to a professional. The more you can do to alleviate back pain, the happier you will be.
