Start the New Year with Better Spinal Health

As the new year begins, many people are looking to improve their health. Unfortunately, back pain is one of the most common problems that people face. In fact, it is estimated that 80% of Americans will experience back pain at some point in their lives. If you want to start the new year off on the right foot, then it’s important to focus on spinal health. In this blog post, we will discuss some tips for keeping your spine healthy and free from pain.

Common Causes of Back Pain

Back pain can be caused by a number of factors, including age, poor posture, and physical activity. The pain often develops without a cause that shows up in a test or imaging study. Conditions commonly linked to back pain include:

• Muscle or ligament strain. Repeated heavy lifting or a sudden awkward movement can strain back muscles and spinal ligaments. For people in poor physical condition, constant strain on the back can cause painful muscle spasms.
• Bulging or ruptured discs. Discs act as cushions between the bones in the spine. The soft material inside a disk can bulge or rupture and press on a nerve. However, a bulging or ruptured disk might not cause back pain. Disk disease is often found on spine X-rays, CT scans or MRIs done for another reason.
• Arthritis. Osteoarthritis can affect the lower back. In some cases, arthritis in the spine can lead to a narrowing of the space around the spinal cord, a condition called spinal stenosis.
• Osteoporosis. The spine’s vertebrae can develop painful breaks if the bones become porous and brittle.

Symptoms of Back Problems

Back pain can range from local pain in a specific spot to generalized pain spreading all over the back. Sometimes the pain radiates away from the back to other areas of your body, such as the buttocks, legs, or abdomen. The intensity of back pain varies for each person. Depending on the type, cause, and location of your back pain, 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.

You should see a doctor if your pain does not improve after a few weeks or if any of the following symptoms happen with your back pain:

• Numbness and tingling.
• Severe back pain that does not improve with medication (see Treatment section).
• Back pain after a fall or injury.
• Back pain along with:
• Trouble urinating.
• Weakness, pain, or numbness in your legs.
• Fever.
• Weight loss that you did not intend.

Tips to Improve Spinal Health

There are several ways in which you can improve your spine health and reduce the risk of experiencing back pain:

1. Exercise regularly –

Regular exercise is one of the best ways to keep your spine healthy. Strengthening the muscles that support your spine can help reduce strain on it. Try to incorporate exercises like yoga, Pilates, and walking into your weekly routine.

2. Improve posture –

Poor posture can put extra stress on the spine. To improve your posture, stand up straight while you walk and sit with an upright posture while at work. Make sure that your computer is at eye level to reduce strain on the neck and shoulders.

3. See a chiropractor –

Regular visits to a chiropractor can help to keep the spine aligned and functioning properly. They can also give advice on how to improve posture, as well as recommend exercises that are appropriate for your current fitness level.

4. Try yoga –

Yoga can help to improve flexibility and strength in the spine, which can reduce the risk of back pain. Certain postures in yoga can also target specific areas of the body to provide relief from pain.

5. Improve your diet –

Eating nutritious and balanced meals is essential for overall health, including spinal health. Eating foods rich in essential vitamins and minerals can help to keep your spine functioning optimally. 

By following these tips, you can start the New Year with less spine problems and improve your overall health.  Make sure to talk to a doctor before beginning any exercise routine or making changes to your diet. With the right care and awareness of spinal health, you can keep your spine in top condition for the new year!

Focus on Spinal Health with Texas Spine and Sports Therapy Center

Texas Spine and Sports Therapy Center is dedicated to providing corrective care for spine problems. Our team of experienced professionals use advanced technology and evidence-based treatments to help patients achieve optimal spinal health. We offer a wide range of services including chiropractic, physical therapy, massage therapy, and medical management.

Contact us today to schedule an appointment and let us help you start the new year with less spine problems!