Back to Basics: How to Minimize Back Pain

Over the years, I’ve been fortunate to experience very little back pain. However, studies show that four out of five people suffer from either acute or chronic back pain.  It turns out that oftentimes, we’re our own worst enemies. The following guidelines are helpful to determine if you’re to blame and how to minimize the discomfort or pressure.

Do you spend on average of 9+ hours each day slouched or hunched in front of your computer screen?  Move your head forward,back, left and right and hold for 10 seconds each position; repeat five times daily.
Do you sleep on your stomach?  If you must,slide a thin pillow under your hips; ensure your mattress is medium firmness.
Do you ignore your core muscles?  Crunches alone don’t cut it; regularly perform lunges, squats and planks. 
Do you smoke?  Nicotine restricts blood flowto the vertebrae; quit lighting up.
Do you carry emotional baggage?  Severely depressed people are four times as likely to develop disabling back and neckpain.  Try mood enhancers like exercise,meditation, yoga or deep breathing; antidepressants are also an option.
Are you lazy?  If you are sedentary for more than a day or two, any pain you are experiencing may worsen.  Do low impact activities such as walking,swimming, stretching and strengthening.

Do you wear shoes with proper support? Flip-flops, shoes that are too tall (and heavy purses) may contribute to back discomfort. Wear shock-absorbing sneakers or shoes that offer good archand heel support (and lighten your load).

If acute orchronic pain lasts more than three or four days, see your physician.  What remedies have you tried to successfully lessen back pain?

 Writtenby Chris Schmidt, who continues to strive for anti-aging and anti-acnesolutions on a shoestring budget, while doing what she can both nutritionallyand fitness-wise to maintain her physical, mental, emotional and spiritualwell-being. Find out what she’s rambling about this week at www.alwaysthewritetime.wordpress.com.