5 Ways to Avoid Back Pain

Back troubles a constant worry for you? We’ve all been there, or at least, statistics show that 8 in 10 of us will be there at some point in our lives. With that in mind, I’ve put together five important tips for avoiding back pain in the future. If you have pain now, call my practice, Living Well Medical in SoHo NYC at 212-645-8151 and make an appointment.

1. Go Green!

Eat dark green veggies that are high in iron and Vitamin K like spinach and broccoli! Strong bones are the foundation of a strong back, and it is believed that Vitamin K can help in the absorption of calcium, maintaining denser bones. Good salads make good bodies.

2. Stretch it Out!

Getting ready to play some sports or work out? Be sure and stretch your back and other muscles and joints. Preparing these areas for added strain and stress by stretching greatly reduces the risk of injury. It also feel pretty darn good.

3. Get Back in the Gym!

Staying in shape can have lasting benefits for your health overall but definitely contributes to avoiding injury, especially if it’s strength training for the back muscles that support the spine. But remember to start slow and easy if it’s your first time trying it! Safety is important when exercising. Also, refer to #2 for a pre-exercise must!

4. Sit up Straight!

Not like the way your mother used to say it. Sitting in an ergonomically correct posture can reduce any unnecessary strain put on the spine while engaging the supporting muscles of the spine. That means no atrophy which means less likelihood of injury. Remember to imagine that book on your head, too.

5. Have Sweet Dreams!

That’s right, sleep! That thing you keep ignoring! Get your 8 hours per night and your body will thank you. Sleep is the time when our body works hard at repairing damage and restoring energy. Without adequate rest, our coordination is poorer and we are more prone to injury. So hop in the sack a little earlier and catch some z’s!

- Dr. Shoshany, NYC Chiropractor

(Looking for a chiropractor in San Francisco? Visit my friend, Dr. Eben Davis, at Executive Express Chiropractic)