Tips for Protecting Your Lower Back

Back pain is one of the most common neurological ailments in adults, second only to headaches.

Because back injuries are so common, it’s important to be proactive about your back’s health, and to take steps that can help to lower your chances of sustaining an injury.

The lower back is especially susceptible to injury when lifting heavy objects, or bending or twisting suddenly. Poor posture can also lead to muscle strain or other issues.

To help reduce your chances of sustaining a back injury, it’s important to focus on back health, and keeping your back muscles strong. Here are a few tips that will help you to protect your back.

Lift Properly

Lifting incorrectly is a common cause of back injury. Even if you have a young and healthy back, you should take care when lifting. The old saying “bend at your knees, and not at your back” is a great piece of advice. Squat down to pick up objects instead of stooping over and bending at the waist.

Maintain Good Posture

Your posture plays an important role in lower back health. Poor posture can cause unnecessary additional pressure on your lower back. Try to maintain good position by sitting up straight in your chair.

Exercise Your Core Muscles

Keeping your core muscles – your lower back and abdominal muscles – in shape can help to provide support to your spine and to take additional pressure off of your lower back. Even low-impact cardiovascular exercise, such as walking, increases blood flow to the spine, which helps to maintain healthy structures in the back.

Warm Up

Allow yourself a warmup period before working out or engaging in strenuous exercise. By giving your muscles a chance to warm up, you’ll be less likely to strain or pull a muscle in your back.

With care, and attention to posture and proper lifting, as well as strengthening the muscles in your lower back, you’ll be able to help protect your back, reducing the chances of a lower back injury.

Blackstone Orthopedics provides orthopedic and sports medicine for Rhode Island. Contact us today for an appointment if you are experiencing back pain. 

This medical information is merely information – not advice. If users need medical advice, they should consult a doctor or other appropriate medical professional.