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
