Growing older is inevitable for all of us, and many of us are concerned with maintaining a youthful appearance, but let’s consider for a second the spine as we age. It is not uncommon for adults to experience an increase in neck or back pain, including joint stiffness. In fact, part of the aging process naturally involves a decline in spinal function as the intervertebral disks begin to get worn down as the years go by. However, since you likely know that lifestyle choices have a significant impact on overall body health, have you ever considered the steps you could take to slow down the aging of your spine? Let’s explore what you can start doing today to have a healthier spine in the days and years ahead!
Make proper posture a priority. If you spend a lot of time at your workstation, it is important to evaluate it and make any necessary ergonomic adjustments.
To avoid putting undue stress on your spine, be sure not to lift objects that are heavier than 25% of your current body weight.
Eat a balanced diet. Do some research on the anti-inflammatory diet and be sure to eat plenty of healthy anti-inflammatory foods and Vitamin D to keep your bones strong.
Do not smoke. If you currently smoke, get the necessary help that you need to stop. Also, do not inhale second-hand smoke. Your spine health and overall body health is affected detrimentally by cigarette smoke.
Lead a healthy, active, and fit lifestyle. Be sure to get enough cardiovascular exercise so that you do not become overweight, as excess weight puts a lot of pressure on the spine. Also, be sure to strengthen your core muscles through targeted exercises.
If you suffer from back pain mostly in the morning hours, you may want to consider buying a higher quality mattress that will be more supportive for your spine.
Everyday stress can cause muscles to become tense, which can lead to neck and back pain. Be sure to take time at the end of each day to unwind and loosen up tense muscles.
When you do exercise, do not overdo it. Repetitive movements or using very heavy weights while training can lead to spine-related issues, including sprains and strains.
When you are experiencing neck or back pain, be sure to get adequate rest and try to use ice, compression, and elevation as soon as possible.
For consistent or recurring neck or back pain, come in to see our Spine Specialists at the Stridewell Clinic. We are here for you!
We are passionate about providing helpful resources that enable those in our community to lead healthier lives. If you have questions or are struggling with neck or back pain, be sure to schedule an appointment with our Spine Specialists. Stridewell Tips
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