Bad Back Habits: Ways You’re Making Your Back Pain Worse
If you’re like most people, you probably have a few bad back habits that are causing your back pain to flare up. Maybe you slouch when you sit at your desk all day, or maybe you carry too much weight on your shoulders. No matter what the cause of your back pain may be, there are certain habits that are making it worse. In this blog post, we will discuss some of the most common bad back habits that people have and how to break them!
The Importance of Spinal Health
Your spine is one of the most important parts of your body. It provides support for your head, neck, and back, and it also protects your spinal cord. When your spine is healthy, you are able to move freely and without pain. However, when your spine is not healthy, you may experience pain, stiffness, and limited mobility.
100 million Americans suffer from chronic neck or back pain each year. There are many things that can lead to an unhealthy spine, such as poor posture, repetitive motions, and injuries. However, one of the most common causes of an unhealthy spine is bad habits.
Bad habits can lead to a number of spine problems, including degenerative disc disease, herniated discs, and pinched nerves. Additionally, bad habits can also worsen existing spine conditions, such as scoliosis and arthritis.
Bad Back Habits: Symptoms of Back Pain
Back pain can vary in intensity from mild to debilitating. It may be sharp or throbbing, and it may radiate down your legs. Additionally, you may experience:
- Increasing pain with lifting and bending.
- Worsening pain when resting, sitting, or standing.
- Back pain that comes and goes.
- Stiffness in the morning when awakening and lessened back pain with activity.
- Pain that radiates away from the back into the buttocks, leg, or hip.
Bad Back Habits: Ways You’re Making Your Back Pain Worse
If you have back pain, it is important to take a look at your daily habits and see if there is anything that you could change to improve your spine health. Here is a list of some of the most common bad habits that people have and how to break them!
Bad Habit #1: Slouching
One of the most common bad habits that people have is slouching. Slouching can occur when you are sitting, standing, or even walking. When you slouch, your spine is not in its natural alignment and this can lead to pain and stiffness. Additionally, slouching can also contribute to bad posture over time.
To break the habit of slouching, it is important to be aware of your posture throughout the day. If you catch yourself slouching, make a conscious effort to stand up straight or sit up taller. Additionally, you can try exercises and stretches that help improve your posture.
Bad Habit #2: Carrying Too Much Weight
Another common bad habit that can lead to back pain is carrying too much weight on your shoulders. When you carry heavy bags or objects, it can cause your spine to curve and put strain on your muscles and ligaments. This can lead to pain, stiffness, and even injuries.
To avoid carrying too much weight, it is important to only carry what you can comfortably handle. If you need to carry a heavy item, make sure to use both hands and lift with your legs. Additionally, you can try wearing a backpack or using a wheeled suitcase to distribute the weight more evenly.
Bad Habit #3: Wearing Unsupportive Shoes
Wearing shoes that are not supportive can also lead to back pain. Shoes that are too high or too low can cause your spine to be out of alignment and put strain on your muscles and ligaments. Additionally, shoes that do not provide enough support can also contribute to foot, knee, and hip problems.
To choose the right shoes for your back, it is important to consider both style and function. You want to make sure that the shoes you choose provide enough support and cushioning for your feet. Additionally, you should avoid wearing high heels or flip-flops as they can put strain on your back.
Bad Habit #4: Sleeping in the Wrong Position
Sleeping in the wrong position can also lead to back pain. When you sleep, you want to make sure that your spine is in a neutral position. This means that your head, neck, and back should be in a straight line. Sleeping in a curled-up position can put strain on your spine and lead to pain.
To find the right sleeping position, it is important to experiment and see what feels comfortable for you. You may need to use pillows to support your head, neck, and back. Additionally, you should avoid sleeping on your stomach as this can contribute to back pain.
Bad Habit #5: Sitting for Too Long
Sitting for long periods of time can also lead to back pain. When you sit, your spine is not in its natural alignment and this can cause strain on your muscles and ligaments. Additionally, sitting for too long can also lead to stiffness and fatigue.
To avoid sitting for too long, it is important to take breaks throughout the day. If you are sitting at a desk, try to stand up and move around every 30 minutes. Additionally, you can try exercises that help improve your flexibility and range of motion.
Bad Habit #6: Poor Lifting Techniques
Poor lifting techniques are another common cause of back pain. When you lift heavy objects, it is important to use proper form to avoid strain on your spine. Additionally, lifting with your back can also lead to injuries.
To lift properly, it is important to use your legs and not your back. Additionally, you should avoid lifting objects that are too heavy for you. If you need to lift a heavy object, make sure to ask for help from someone else.
Fight Back Pain with Advanced Chiropractic & Rehab
If you are suffering from back pain, it is important to seek treatment from a qualified healthcare provider. At Advanced Chiropractic & Rehab, we specialize in treating all types of back pain. Chiropractic care is a safe and effective treatment option that can help improve your symptoms.
To learn more about our services, contact us today and schedule a consultation! Your spinal health is our top priority!
