Protecting Your Spine
Comfortable sleep is essential
One of the silly secrets of the medical profession is that we can often tell the fitness level of a patient by their carriage. The muscles of a well-exercised body will naturally align the body into proper posture. Even seniors who begin a regular exercise regimen will find their body lengthening into a more upright position. Like Ernestine Shepherd, the oldest female bodybuilder in the world, many seniors, while not quite inspired enough to set any world records are turning out to the gym in record numbers. http://ernestineshepherd.net/?page_id=2
Proper spine alignment during sleep
Not only is quantity an essential factor to keep a body healthy, but sleeping comfortably also helps keep your spine adjusted. The easiest way to discover what is best for your own body is to pay close attention before you drift off to sleep and upon waking. In fact, most people wake several times during the night, although many don’t remember doing so without prompting. While a patient is in bed and immediately after rising are the best times to do a personal inventory on any neck, back and leg pain or stiffness. Depending on which position you choose, several items will prove handy to create better comfort. A rolled t-shirt beneath your neck can help position the neck. Pillows or bolsters beneath or between the knees can also help. The best way to discover what works is to experiment.
Posture at 8 am, 12 pm and 4 pm. ;)
Frequent movement
Especially those with desk jobs need to move, stretch, and frequently walk to keep muscles elastic and circulation healthy. Those who sit for long periods in an office setting will discover that by moving frequently, they will be more able to focus when they’re working. A stagnant body can create an inactive mind.
Ergonomic sitting
Sitting ergonomically in a chair, and limiting the amount of time sitting between rest periods will help keep the spine aligned and limit fatigue. In some workplaces, the chair is assigned to the employee, and they have to make do with practicing ergonomic posture in it. However, if there is some leeway, an ergonomic chair or standing desk can facilitate better spine health. Exercise balls are great for short periods while you’re doing something relaxing, but shouldn’t be used while you’re trying to work, or for an extended period, according to research.
Massage
Massage can effectively ease tension and stress out of back and neck muscles. Since some people ‘carry’ their stress in their neck and back, massage is a welcome solution to easing the tension out of those regions.
Talk to the massage therapist to find out if a chiropractic adjustment is necessary. If so, the massage therapist will recommend it.
Your chiropractic team is dedicated to providing you with the best spinal health possible. The healthier the spine, the better off your entire structure will be. We are here to help!
