Top Ten Tips for looking after your Back

Some of these tips may seem simple, but take note of them. So many of the people that I see in my practice, wouldn't be there if they had followed their advice.

1. For back pain or any pain, it's better to see your osteopath earlier rather than later. It's much easier and cost effective to treat a twinge before it becomes something else.
2. Take regular exercise. You don't have to run a marathon, just do something that you enjoy every day.
3. Hours in one position can cause problems - avoid spending too much time bent over a computer or workbench.
4. During repetitive tasks, vary your rhythm and take frequent breaks.
5. Adjust car seats and on long journeys, take regular breaks to stretch your whole body.
6. Pace yourself with heavy work like gardening - don't risk a disc.
7. Watch your children's posture - they shouldn't carry heavy bags on one shoulder.
8. During pregnancy, osteopathy can help your body adjust to its changes and prevent problems from occurring.
9. Avoid strain when lifting, particularly when lifting small children, and lifting and twisting with shopping bags (i.e. putting them in the back of your car).
10. Seek good backcare advice from your osteopath, that's what we're here for, so speak to us before you have to visit us.

I shall be elaborating on some of these points in later posts, so until then, look after yourself.