How to Protect Your Spine

Most people are concerned about brushing their teeth, wearing sunscreen, and getting enough sleep, but often ignore one of the most important parts of their bodies: the spine. The entire central nervous system originates in the brain and channels down through the spinal column- extending to every part of the body.

No matter what activities you include in your typical day, they may be taking a toll on your spine. Bending, reaching- even sitting in front of the computer- can result in painful muscles, injury and a misaligned spine. You may not pay attention to your spine, neck, shoulders, or back until they hurt, but by reading the tips below, you will learn how to prevent much of that pain and keep your spine safe.

At the office

*Make sure your chair fits correctly. There should be two inches between the front edge of the seat and the back of your legs. Sit with your feet flat on the floor with your knees at a 90-degree angle. If you can't sit that way, use an angled or elevated footrest.

*Take periodic stretch breaks.

*Hold the telephone with your hand, use a headset, or use a speakerphone. Do not cradle the phone between your ear and shoulder. This can lock the spinal joints in the neck and upper back and
eventually cause pain.

Playing Sports

*Warm up slowly before a game. Do calisthenics or light running to increase your heart rate slowly. When sweat beads begin to form, your body is at the proper temperature to stretch tendons and muscles.

*Don't overextend yourself. Rest when you're tired and drink plenty of water.

At Home

*When you wash the dishes, open the cabinet beneath the sink, bend one knee, and put your foot on the shelf. Lean against the counter so some of your weight is supported in front.

*When resting or watching TV, don't use the sofa arm as a pillow. The angle is too sharp for your neck.

*Don't bend from the waist when you lift a child. Squat with your back straight. Keep the child close to you and use your legs and arms to lift.

In the Yard

*Kneel instead of bending in all outdoor work and alternate your weight as much as possible to balance the muscles you use.

*When raking leaves, use a scissors stance: right foot forward and left foot back for a few minutes and then reverse.

*Bend at the knees, not your waist as you pick up leaves and debris.

*While mowing, use your weight to push the mower.

Chiropractic care centers on the spinal column and nervous system, offering a safe, holistic approach to healing. A misalignment of a vertebra may cause a "pinched" or inhibited spinal nerve that may result in back pain, headaches and numerous other ailments. That's why spinal adjustments can help the body heal more effectively. Don't neglect your chiropractic adjustments.