Dealing with Back Pain
Back pain can be a real nuisance and it can happen to the most agile of people including athletes, so it’s important that you are aware of the techniques to stop it bothering you in the long term. The most reliable form of prevention when it comes to back pain is to keep your back regularly exercised and also to retain a typically strong posture. Being careful when lifting heavy objects and exercising regularly are just a few ways and there are many other things to consider with regards to daily lifestyle.
Constant back pain could be a sign that you’re not following the general guidelines when it comes to preventing back pain. On the other hand, it might be a symptom of a lifestyle you’ve got used to over the years. According to the NHS, losing weight, wearing flat shoes with cushioned soles, avoiding sudden movements, reducing stress and anxiety and staying active on a regular basis all help to prevent seemingly never-ending bouts of back pain.
Exercise is vital for the human body to function correctly. Unfortunately, many people suffer from a lack of exercise due to work restraints or simply because they lack the motivation to get up and go. Back pain emanates from the stiffness of the spine and its surrounding muscles, so exercising can have a great effect. However, you should always consult a professional if back pain has been severe or constant for a long time, usually over 6 weeks. Exercising is a necessity for good health whilst taking part in swimming, running, yoga or Pilates can help to strengthen your back muscles.
Your posture will determine the regular state of your spinal cord. If you sit in a position that bends the spine awkwardly or forces the muscles to work harder than usual, you will feel a tightness or stiffness in the back that could lead to future back pain. Standing straight with flat feet and weight evenly distributed throughout the body is ideal whilst sitting, both at home and in a vehicle, with a back support with level knees and hips and accompanied by an effective cushion prevents can relieve back pain. Sleeping is similar in that you need a comfortable platform to lie on. Always support your head with a soft pillow, especially if you are lifting heavy objects on a regular basis.
If you are regularly lifting or handling heavy objects, you may find that your back muscles are being used on a regular basis. If you work in an environment that lifts heavy objects or you are an inexperienced lifter of heavy weights, you are in danger of damaging your back without the correct technique. Always consider the weight of the object and never feel obliged to lift something that you can’t manage. The act of pulling a heavy item is not the answer as this also works the back muscles too much. Instead, resort to pushing the item as this does not require the back for support. If you find you are suffering from back pain as a result of going to the gym, speak to someone regarding your training regime and consider switching it up once you have fully recovered.
About the Author
Tom French writes for a number of online publications about fitness and wellbeing and has contributed this post on behalf of the Physio Therapy Centre, offering a range of complementary therapy services for those suffering with back and joint complaints across Mid Sussex.
