August is National Wellness Month and is a great time to focus on our spine, the backbone of our health. To live our best lives, we need a healthy spine. Let’s discuss spine health tips and help you develop healthy habits in honor of wellness month.
Check out these tips to keep your spine healthy and strong.
Get Up and Move! According to research, movement plays an important role in every aspect of our health. The healing process is stimulated and accelerated by the movement of the spine. The healing process depends heavily on activity; even people undergoing spine surgery are encouraged to get up as soon as possible.
Maintain a Healthy BMI. Your spine is supported and held in place by vertebrae, muscles, and ligaments. Your spine handles pressure and movement. Excess weight can stress and strain your spine, resulting in discomfort or even debilitating symptoms. Creating a daily routine that promotes healthy eating habits and exercise can help you lose weight and promote spinal health.
Hydrate. Dehydration can affect mobility, flexibility, and create pain in the spine. Water is essential for the function and repair of musculoskeletal tissues. Dehydration can cause the spine to age faster than it should. Drinking water throughout the day is a great way to create lasting spinal health.
Improve Core Strength. Back pain is often associated with a lack of core strength. Without a strong core, your body will rely on other structures for stabilizing and mobilizing, such as your ligaments, which may cause pain. Engage and strengthen your core through exercise and daily movement for better spine health.
Proper Ergonomics. Over half of the average person's day involves sitting. People who spend so much time in one position will likely experience back pain and other spinal problems. Ergonomics reduces stress and fatigue. A workplace that applies ergonomic principles can reduce injuries, increase productivity, and improve back and neck health.
Making these lifestyle changes can positively impact your spinal health. If you or a loved one suffers from back and neck pain, Dr. Moazzaz can help. Contact us for an in-depth evaluation of your spine condition.
Dr. Payam Moazzaz is a board-certified orthopedic spine surgeon in California specializing in robotic-assisted minimally invasive spine surgery.