Back Pain Prevention Strategies: Tips for a Healthy Back and a Pain-Free Life
No one wants to deal with back pain–it can dramatically impact quality of life, making it challenging to stay active and complete everyday activities. But because back pain is so common, many people feel like it’s an inevitable fact of life. Not true! Several back pain prevention strategies can help maintain a healthy spine and avoid pain.
At Crane Physical Therapy, we regularly help our patients manage and resolve their back pain. And once they’re feeling better, we equip them with the tools they need to avoid future incidences of back pain.
But those same tools can help stop back pain before it starts. Simple strategies like building up core strength or avoiding prolonged sitting are things you can do now to prevent back pain in the long term. And best of all, our Mansfield, OH team is here to help you get started even if you aren’t currently experiencing any symptoms.
Today, we want to share some of our favorite back pain prevention strategies. Want more guidance? Schedule an appointment!
Our Top Five Back Pain Prevention Strategies
Strengthen Your Core
- A healthy spine starts with a strong core. Your core refers to the muscles that wrap around your midsection, including your back, hip, obliques, and deep abdominal muscles. A strong core improves balance and stability and reduces the risk of back injury. Our team can guide you through safe and effective exercises.
Practice Good Posture
- Maintaining proper posture throughout the day is crucial for preventing back strain that can lead to discomfort. It’s important to recognize that “good posture” looks different for everyone. The focus isn’t just on standing up straight but on keeping your spine in the proper position depending on the activities you do throughout the day. We can show you how.
Move Regularly
- Avoiding prolonged postures is also essential for avoiding back pain. Your body was made to move, not hold a single position for an extended period of time. Try to move your body every 30-45 minutes, especially if you have a sedentary job. Setting a timer to remind yourself to get up and stretch or walk around the office can make a big difference!
Lift Correctly
- Improper lifting is a common cause of muscle strains or herniated discs, two painful back injuries. Our physical therapists will ensure you know the right way to lift heavy objects, such as bending at the knees and keeping your back straight as you lift. It’s also important not to try to lift anything too heavy for you. When in doubt, get help!
Visit a Physical Therapist
- Need help implementing the four previous tips? Schedule an appointment with Crane Physical Therapy. Our PTs can conduct a comprehensive assessment to pinpoint any postural or biomechanical issues that might contribute to back pain–and then create a personalized program to keep your back and spine in optimal health.
Ready to Start Working Toward Preventing Back Pain?
These back pain prevention strategies can help keep you healthy and active. Don’t wait until you’ve suffered an injury to visit our Mansfield, OH clinic. Make your appointment today to take control of your health and well-being!