Everyday Activities Causing Neck and Back Pain

Sitting at a Desk

Bad posture puts a lot of stress on your spine, and the discomfort may linger long after you've left your seat. If your job keeps you at a desk all day, make it a priority to take breaks for stretching, short walks and adjusting your posture, to relieve unnecessary stress on your joints.

The American Chiropractic Association recommends sitting with your feet on the floor or a footrest, hips level with or slightly above the knees, ankles in front of your knees and shoulders relaxed. You should also choose chairs with lower back support, or get a back rest to improve an otherwise unsupportive chair.

Lifting Heavy Things

Whether you're moving boxes, rearranging furniture, picking up your kids or any number of situations that require you to lift something from the floor, don't start by bending toward the ground. Use your legs to squat lower to pick up things, then lift them by standing up. Merely bending at the waist or hips to lift heavy objects buts a lot of strain on your back and increases your risk of injury.

Watching TV

Sitting on the couch may be a mental-stress reliever, but most people don't veg out with good posture. Slouching could lead to back pain, so make sure you don't spend too much time lounging around. Use commercial breaks to get up, move around and stretch.

Eating Unhealthy Food

A diet high in junk food may be low in nutrients you need to maintain healthy bones and joints. On top of that, eating food that clogs your arteries harms your circulation, which your body needs to deliver nutrients and remove waste. To relieve back pain, look into a diet that will reduce joint inflammation.

Skipping the Gym

Back pain may make you want to take it easy, but choosing to be sedentary won't necessarily help you recover. Exercise gets the blood flowing, helping your body heal, as well as alleviate stiffness and reduce muscle tension.

Your back pain may be triggered by several things, but making small adjustments to your habits and consulting a chiropractor will help relieve your pain. Our Chiropractic Care Center provides neck and back pain relief for people in the Union, KY, area, and you can get more information about available services by calling (859) 647-7730.