Do’s and Don’ts of Proper Spinal Care
Sitting
- Do avoid sitting for long periods of time; take lots of breaks to stand and stretch backwards to counteract the curve of your lower back — your chiropractor in Silver Spring, MD, can give you some exercises to use
- Do sit back in your chair to give your back the support it needs
- Do keep your feet flat on the floor
- Don’t lean forward with your back arched
- Don’t sit in a chair that’s too big, too low or too high
- Don’t slouch in your chair
Standing
- Do shift your weight from time to time and, if possible, rest one foot on a stool to relieve strain in your lower back
- Do keep your head in a neutral position on your neck, looking straight ahead — if you’re not sure what a neutral position feels like, your Ameriwell chiropractor in Silver Spring, MD, can help
- Do stand squarely if you can’t use a low stool, with your weight distributed evenly on both feet
- Don’t stay in one place too long
- Don’t bend forward with your legs straight
- Don’t wear high heels, as they put stress on your back
Driving
- Do elevate the headrest until it’s right behind your head — this can help prevent major injuries in case of a car accident
- Do sit up straight with your back against the seat — if your seat doesn’t have enough lumbar support, ask your chiropractor what you should do to get lumbar support
- Do keep both hands on the steering wheel
- Don’t sit so far back that you have to reach for the steering wheel or pedals
Lifting
- Do squat down to life, making sure to keep your back straight
- Do hold the object close to your body
- Do lift with your legs, keeping your back straight, moving slowly and carefully
- Don’t try to lift with your arms outstretched
- Don’t try to lift something that’s too heavy or awkward
- Don’t bend over to pick something up — your Ameriwell chiropractor in Silver Spring, MD may tell you all the ways this can injure your back
Sleeping
- Do sleep curled up on your side with a pillow between your knees to relieve any pressure on your lower back — your chiropractor in Silver Spring, MD can make appropriate pillow suggestions both for your head and between your knees
- Do put a pillow under your knees if you sleep on your back
- Do get out of bed by rolling onto your side, then sitting up sideways
- Don’t sleep on a mattress that’s too soft, as it will offer little back support
- Don’t sleep on your stomach — is strains your lower back