Low back pain is ubiquitous, over 80% of people will experience it at some point in their life. And then 90% of that 80% will experience at least one additional episode. Given that no one enjoys low back pain, it might be worth taking steps to prevent it altogether. And certainly to ward off multiple episodes. So…what are you willing to do to PREVENT low back pain? Let’s highlight a few.

1. Be mindful when lifting heavy items. The spine is made to bend and twist. It can tolerate the movement necessary to pick up items. But where people get into trouble is bending and twisting to lift HEAVY items. If a person’s back is going to complain those are the key elements. So, when lifting “square” the item up, avoid the twisting component. OR…and this is probably best, get help to lift heavy items.
2. A strong, healthy spine is less likely to complain and cause a person activity-limiting pain. Exercise for a healthy spine includes strengthening, flexibility/mobility, and cardiovascular exercises. These elements are not just for the spine but the whole body. The same 3 components that are generally recommended for all anyway.
3. Act your age. Understand that as you age, you will not be able to perform yard/housework as you did when you were younger. This also means activities with kids or recreational sports. It does not mean you cannot be active just be aware of time/intensity involved with the activity. Injuries are more likely to occur when the body is fatigued. And certainly beware of the weekend warrior issues. If you want to be active, you must make the commitment to prepare the body appropriately.
4. Get help or guidance. For those who are not sure, and even those who think they know, getting professional help is wise. For someone without a history of muscle and joint issues, who just need some push for safe exercise, a personal trainer may be the best place to start. If however, you are someone who has dealt with a variety of muscle/joint aches or pains or currently has concerns, then a physical therapist is the place to start. Let this medical expert in body movement help screen out possible concerns and develop a safe plan to get moving for a health back.
5. This is the most important…do not stop moving or exercising. Too often people will get moving on a good program only to stop. This is especially true of those who previously had pain. If a program helped to put you in a good spot with your back, DO NOT STOP.

Are you ready to prevent low back pain or from it coming back? Then click the following LINK to connect with an expert today.