Tips for Protecting Your Lower Back

The human body is an amazingly resilient and flexible creation that can withstand a considerable amount of stresses and trauma. Spinal anatomy in itself is a marvel of human nature, it holds our bodies up while we bend, twist, and lift heavy objects. Dr. Barry, a Times Square chiropractor, knows that many people take the flexibility, strength, and structure of the spine for granted until something goes wrong.

Since the lower back is the most frequently injured area of the spine, the chiropractor in Times Square recommends the following tips for protecting your lower back:

1. Correct your posture. Poor posture places unnecessary pressure on the lower back and can cause the degenerated disks to be more painful. New York City chiropractor, Dr. Barry, recommends that you support the natural curve in the lower back, remind yourself to check your posture throughout the day, and make sure that you get up and walk around at least once an hour.

2. Exercise regularly. It is important to have strong core muscles in order to support the lower back and avoid injury. Dr. Barry suggests moderate aerobic exercise, which will increase blood flow to the spine and supply it with healing nutrients, as well as hydrate the discs.

3. Use proper form when lifting heavy objects. You can cause serious injury to your spine if you do not lift heavy objects properly. You should never lift a heavy object with the pressure on your lower back. Always distribute the weight and use your legs to lift.

 4. Stretch your hamstrings. Tight hamstrings can also cause lower back pain. Simple hamstring stretches can help decrease the pressure on the pelvis and provide relief across the lower back.