Thursday, July 8, 2010

Fix Your Own Aching Back!

Back pain is one of the most common ailments to affect Americans and it cost us a whopping 250 billion dollars per year. It can range from an annoyance to disabling pain requiring permanent disability.

As a doctor who treats back pain, among other conditions, I see the same things over and over so I have written this to help you prevent issues from arising now or in the future. Below are a list of things that YOU can do for free!

GET MOVING! - Whether you call yourself one or not you are an athlete! Your body was designed to run, jump, hunt, fight, play, etc. but I rarely meet anyone over the age of 15 that leads a truly active lifestyle. Like car that has not been started in years, our bodies too will get "gunked up." Being active can keep the back strong.

LOSE THE GUT! - If you are carrying excess weight, especially in the abdomen, its time to shed that spare tire. Being overweight stresses the joints of the spine particularly the ones in the low back. If you need to lose a few set a goal of losing 1 pound/week until you reach your target weight. Your spine will love you for it.

TOUCH YOUR TOES! - Stretch, stretch, streeeeeeeetch! Flexibility is essential to keeping the joints moving freely. Picture the stiff old tree or the young green sapling during a hurricane: which one is more likely to become damaged? Aim to stretch once a day for at least 10 minutes.

ATTENTION!! - Are you slouching as you read this? Sit up and stand up straight as often as possible to prevent the ligaments and discs in your spine from being damaged. Postural fatigue is one of the top causes of back pain.
As always consult your local chiropractor before making any changes to your lifestyle to make sure that your body is ready.

Dr. Russ practices in Wilmington, NC and has been freeing people from pain and other conditions since 2007. Russ Chiropractic and Wellness Center utilizes Chiropractic, Massage, Exercise, Nutrition, and Weight Loss to help others achieve their individual health goals. Visit us on the web at http://www.RussChiro.com

Get FREE health updates by becoming a Fan at http://www.facebook.com/RussChiropractic

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=David_Russ


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