Valentine’s Day is just about here, and that means showing our loved ones how much we care with cards, candy, gifts, and flowers. All over the country, people spend millions of dollars on this day alone. But this year, we think you should make your spine your valentine, and show it a little love! Here are our tips:
Stretch. When you wake up, after sitting at your desk for awhile, and definitely before and after you exercise…stretching is important! Stretching is a great way to give your body a recovery period, and it also to warm your body up before a workout. When your muscles are warm and flexible, you reduce the risk of sports related injuries. Stretching also helps to soothe and manage back and body pains you may be experiencing.
Strengthen Your Core. Speaking of exercising, a great way to reduce some of the stress your back experiences is by strengthening your core. We are happy to provide you with a number of core strengthening exercises - just ask us during your next appointment!
Weight Management. Along with exercise comes weight management. A few added pounds might not seems like too much to worry about, but that added weight means increased stress for your spine. When you maintain a healthy weight, you help your spine support your body with less stress.
Sit with Proper Posture. Plenty of our patients spend hours upon hours sitting at their desks, then sitting during their commute, then sitting at home. Next time you are seated, take a moment to think about your posture. Bad posture puts added strain on your low back. Try to sit with your spine straight and shoulders back. Make sure that your body weight is distributed evenly on your hips and your knees are at a right angle with your feet flat on the floor. This will reduce the strain put on your low back muscles.
Sleep with Proper Posture. Proper posture isn’t just for sitting! When you are sleeping, your body is recharging from a busy day. When you sleep with proper posture, you give your body the best chance to recuperate. Avoid sleeping on your stomach, as this can strain your neck and spine. Try using a support pillow for your lower back and neck to promote proper sleeping posture.
Another way to show your back some love this Valentine's Day is to schedule your next chiropractic adjustment with us. Contact us today!