Everyday Habits that Cause Back Pain?
Did you know that back pain (specifically lower back pain) is ranked #2 in terms of its rate of occurrence? Needless to say, back pain is something that we will all face at some point in our lives, especially given the habits of our time. As you read on, see if you’re guilty of one or more of these habits that we often overlook or take for granted.
Sitting In Front of the Computer
Many people have jobs whose work requires the use of a computer, which requires sitting down in a chair for extended periods of time. If you do not maintain proper posture, then you highly risk the chance of developing pain in your back, especially your lower back (and even your neck).
Try maintaining a posture of 90 degrees. It may take some time to adjust, but it will save you from a slew of trouble as your body ages. It also helps to take small breaks regularly throughout the day for stretching.
You Use Your Smartphone Too Much
When we use our smartphones, most of us do not even realize that we’re bending over to look at the screen. This repetitive bending over to look at our phones adds more unnecessary pressure to our backs, shoulders, and neck. Try holding your phone out with your arm to browse it. This way the pressure is on your arm and not your back.
Not Enough Exercise
You’ve probably heard it a million times already, but we’ll say it again: exercise it very important to maintaining a strong, healthy body. By exercising your core muscles (i.e. back, side, pelvic, buttock, and abs) you may feel a lot less back pain from everyday activities such as sitting in front of a computer.
If you want to strengthen your spine and the muscles associated with it, then look into performing lunges, squats, and planks. If you’re experiencing back pain after a workout, then it’s most likely because of improper technique during certain exercises. Crunches may be great for your abs, but they can also cause more pain in your back unless they don’t properly and slowly.
Wearing the Wrong Shoes
Most of us know that high heels are not beneficial to your back at all, but do you know that sandals or flip-flops aren’t much better? These types of shoes can put additional pressure on your back, as they provide little to no arch support.
Shock-absorbing sneakers provide the support that your back needs. Always make sure you buy a pair of shoes that fit well, even if you need to spend a little extra money on it. Think of it as an investment.
You Smoke Cigarettes
Smoking cigarettes comes with many potential problems, including back pain. Nicotine prevents blood flow from reaching your vertebrae and disks, allowing them to break down faster, causing pain. There’s only one thing you need to do: quit smoking.
Sleeping On Your Stomach
Some people prefer to sleep on their stomach. This method actually puts pressure on your spine, leading to back pain, which can keep you up all night. It’s much better to sleep on your side or on your back. If you absolutely have to sleep on your stomach, then try placing a pillow under your hips to take some of the pressure off of your back.
Research has shown medium mattresses provide better support for our bodies over firm mattresses. The softest mattress isn’t always the best. These same researchers concluded that a good mattress should have a balance of firmness and softness.
If you want to read more on back pain, then visit our page on “Lower Back Pain” here.