Spine Health ~ Protect Your Back Against Herniated Discs And Other Back Injuries

Posted on: 11 March 2017

Back problems are painful, and there are a number of reasons that people get them. Perhaps you are at risk of developing a condition such as a herniated disc and do not know it. The following are a few things that you can do to protect your back against injuries.

Diet

Ensure that your diet is rich in calcium and magnesium-rich foods. If you feel as though you are not getting enough of these in your diet, consider taking a supplement to protect your back.

Proper Lifting 

Weight lifting is one type of exercise that can result in herniated discs if lifting is done incorrectly. Proper form is extremely important. For example, some people make jerk and twist movements during their weight lifting sessions. This type of behavior can result in back sprains and serious back injuries. When in doubt, seek the help of a professional weight lifter or personal trainer. If your job involves lifting, you also need to ensure that you hold heavy items close to you and lift with your legs rather than your back. Use a back brace for extra protection.

Healthy Weight

If you are overweight, you may be putting extra strain on your back. Exercise can help with weight loss. It can also aid in strengthening your bones and vertebrae, which can protect you against bone fractures and vertebrae injuries. You do not have to get involved in strenuous exercise. Mild and moderate exercising such as walking or jogging can also help protect you against back injuries.

Shoes

It might seem odd that your shoes can result in you getting a back injury, but it can happen. When you put on shoes, they can impact the alignment of your spine. This means that continuously wearing shoes that put your spine in an awkward position could result in a back injury, especially if you perform a task that involves using your back.

Hydration

Choose to drink water when possible and avoid drinks such as sodas and alcohol, which can cause dehydration. If your body gets dehydrated, it can pull moisture from areas such as your discs. When this happens over a period of time people can develop conditions such as degenerative discs. 

A spine specialist, like those at Pain Relief Center and similar locations, is a good resource to use if you develop a back injury that you think might be a herniated disc. Seeking medical attention from a professional is essential. Some back injuries present similar symptoms, which is why a professional diagnosis is needed. 

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