Back pain affects over 80% of North Americans.  There is a long list of causes of  back pain  including injury, repetitive activity, heavy lifting, poor lifting technique, poor posture and muscular weakness/deconditioning.  It is important to understand the causes of back pain so that proper chiropractic treatment of back pain can be provided.

It is important to note that preventing back pain before it happens is the best ‘treatment.’

Here are some helpful tips to preventing back pain:

-stretch before and after strenuous physical activity (stretches should involve the same muscle groups that will be used in the strenuous activity)

-avoid slouching or poor posture

-avoid prolonged stationary positions (do not sit or stand in 1 position for an extended amount of time.  The body was meant to move. You are better off getting up and taking a short walk or stretching frequently)

-use a proper back support (lumbar support) while sitting

-avoid bending over with straight legs (this puts a lot of strain on your low back)

-lift properly (bend your knees and lift with your legs not your back)

-wear well fitted comfortable shoes (avoid high heels, this puts pressure on the low back)

-sleep on your side (this is less pressure on your back)

-manage your weight (being over weight puts strain on your back)

-don’t smoke (smoking reduces blood flow and the delivery of nutrients to your muscles and disc in your back which leaves them susceptible to injury)

-eat a balanced meals (make sure you eat fruits, vegetables and get enough calcium and vitamin D to maintain healthy muscles, joints and bones)

-keep your back strong (core exercise)

Preventing back pain is much easier than living with back pain.