Make this the year you banish your back pain!
We all too often dismiss back pain as ‘just one of those things’. ‘It’ll be gone in a few days, won’t it?’ Annually, back pain affects half of the population and statistics show that a quarter of women and a third of men over 65 struggle with more severe, prolonged episodes. Although it disrupts simple aspects of day to day life, the high statistics suggest that too many of us are just ignoring the problem and hoping for the best. Perhaps we feel that it can’t be treated or that it’s just a harmless hitch that we shouldn’t make a fuss about.
Here are ten top tips to help you banish back pain, from Lushington Chiropractic; an award winning practice in Eastbourne town centre
1. Keep Moving: Keeping fit and active is a must! This benefits spinal strength and mobility. A 20 minute walk is much better than a 20 minute sit down. If British weather is holding you back, why not go for a swim at the local pool?
2. Lift Carefully: There is an art to lifting heavy objects. Bend your knees, keep your back straight and don’t twist your body. Hold your tummy in tight and keep the object close to you – safest for both you and whatever you may be lifting!
3. Sit Correctly: Try to keep your lower back supported when sitting down. Keep your feet flat on the floor, with your hips slightly higher than your knees. Although it’s always tempting to curl your legs up on the sofa whilst hugging that cup of tea, try to avoid doing it!
4. Invest in a Nice Bed: Your mattress should be firm enough that it supports your back, and should allow your hips and shoulders to sink in slightly. Most importantly, you should feel comfortable whilst in bed and when you wake up. Remember; price/orthopaedic labels are not always the best guide!
5. Sleep Comfortably: Sleeping on your back is best for the body. If you have to sleep on your side, put a pillow between your knees and try not to twist into the recovery position. Never sleep on your front because it twists your neck and lower back. Sweet dreams!
6. Get a Good Start to the Day: When you awake, pull your knees into your chest to stretch the hips. This wakes up the lower back and relieves stiff joints.
7. Warm Up and Chill Out: Do some light stretching before and after physical activity, including things such as gardening and clearing up. This will make sure your muscles are warmed up and cooled off properly.
8. De-stress: Get plenty of exercise, eat healthily and sleep like a king or queen. Invest in a relaxing massage to reduce muscular tension! At Lushington Chiropractic, a range of massage therapies are available. Finally, a valid excuse for a day of pampering!
9. Listen to your body: Pain is a warning sign. If something is hurting you, don’t carry on through the pain. Get someone to lend you a hand instead of pushing your body too far.
10. Visit a Chiropractor: They are the experts at treating muscle joint and nerve related problems. The focus with chiropractic is on actually fixing the problem and helping the body to work better, not just feel better.
If the tips aren’t working for you, seeking help is probably a very good idea. It’s time we stopped aching and started shaking our back pain! If you are local to Eastbourne and would like more information, do not hesitate to contact the Lushington Chiropractic.
The chiropractors at Lushington Chiropractic are always happy to help. Feel free to telephone the clinic on
01323 722499 chirocare.co.uk
