Suffering from back pain and looking forward to putting your feet up and doing nothing more than indulging in scrumptious chocolate eggs this Easter?
Too much of what may seem to be a good thing could actually be a bad thing for your back.
According to our Fareham chiropractor, chronic back pain is often caused my muscle tension. And a lack of exercise is one of the biggest culprits for muscle tension. So the message is pretty obvious; whether the Easter Bunny has been or not, you should make an effort to include exercise in your daily routine.
What exactly is muscle tension?
Muscle tension is when your muscles stay in a semi-contracted state for a long period of time. This constant state of contraction can not only result in tension, but can also lead to muscle spasms and pain.
By exercising regularly, you can help your blood flow more efficiently, which will enable your muscles to access that all-important oxygen-rich blood. When you don’t exercise, your muscles receive lower levels of oxygen.
According to our chiropractor in Fareham, stretching is also vital to maintaining good back health, especially before and after exercising. If you do not stretch, your muscles can shorten, which can cause painful knots to develop. Stretching can help to elongate your muscles, which can significantly reduce the chance of injury. Your muscles will also benefit from better oxygenation if you stretch regularly. Stretching before you exercise will help to prepare your muscles for the impact of exercise, while stretching after a workout will help to relax your muscles and reduce soreness.
Many people assume that when it comes to back pain, rest is best. But sitting down is up there on the list of the most damaging things you can do for your back. Sitting for long periods of time puts extra pressure on your discs, nerves and vertebrae, which can do a lot of damage over time. If you sit for long periods of time on a regular basis, you may start to notice back ache or tenderness, which, in some cases, can lead to chronic and life changing back pain. So when you’re day dreaming about those long hours spent curled up in front of your favourite films this Easter, spare a thought or two for your poor spine.
According to our Fareham chiropractor, putting small changes into place, such as reducing the amount of time you sit, can significantly help to reduce back pain symptoms and reduce your chances of developing chronic back problems in the future. Instead of watching TV or using the computer for several hours on end, stand and stretch every twenty to thirty minutes. Taking these simple steps can help to alleviate the pressure in your back and stimulate your muscles.
Good posture is also super important for your spine. Whether you’re sitting or standing, try to get into the habit of keeping your back straight, shoulders loose and your feet firm on the ground. Poor posture won’t only increase your risk of worsening or developing back pain, but it can also cause numerous other conditions such as a curvature of the spine and digestive problems.
We all want you to have a lovely time this Easter, but we want your spines to enjoy a long and healthy life too! It doesn’t take big changes in your life to make big changes to your back health.
Looking for more advice on back pain or spine related symptoms? Our chiropractors at Homewood Chiropractic Clinic in Fareham are here to help. If you’re not sure if we can help you then you can take up our “Free Chiro Check” offer. It’s a 15 minute informal, private chat which can help you decide if we are the right clinic for you. You can find out more here.
Great health starts with a great spine.
Our Experience Counts: 55 Years in Fareham
Serving the people of Fareham, and surrounding areas of Southampton, Portsmouth, Hampshire and the local areas of Whiteley, Hedge End, Locks Heath & Portchester
