Many people who come for treatment at our Marietta spine center suffer from spinal health issues that could have been prevented. A few lifestyle changes could have helped them enjoy a stronger back and a life free of pain and physical limitations.
As doctors, we firmly believe that prevention is better than treatment. We will share some simple, but essential lifestyle changes that can help prevent the onset of various spinal conditions.
1. Reduce Screen Time
Most of us rely on our smartphone as the primary device for communication, entertainment, shopping and more. But the constant bending of the head to look at the mobile screen properly creates a serious spinal issue in time: the text neck.
This term defines an abnormal curvature in the cervical spine (the part of the spine that goes through the neck). This exaggerated curvature is accompanied by many negative symptoms, such as:
- Headaches
- Improper breathing
- Shoulder pain
- Neck pain and stiffness
Whenever you want to be entertained, put away the phone and go out to have fun with your family and friends.
2. Maintain an Ergonomic Posture at the Desk
Poor ergonomics is responsible for chronic back pain in many office workers. The key elements of proper ergonomics are:
- Setting up the desk according to your height
- Using an adjustable ergonomic chair
- Placing the computer monitor at the eye level
A few simple adjustments to your workplace set-up can save you a lifetime of pain and physical limitations.
3. Reach and Maintain a Healthy Weight
Speaking about weight is a sensitive issue for everyone, and the doctors at our Marietta spine center understand that. However, there is no denying that being overweight puts you at risk of developing various health conditions, such as:
- Type 2 diabetes
- High blood pressure
- Coronary heart disease
- Bowel cancer
Obesity also puts a lot of pressure on your joints and spine, and may cause a herniated disc or other problems.
The good news is that, with some exceptions triggered by endocrine conditions, obesity is reversible by adopting a healthy diet and an active lifestyle.
4. Choose a Comfortable Sleeping Position
In many cases, spinal health issues are caused by an incorrect sleeping position. Ideally, you should never sleep on your front, because this position accentuates the curvature of the spine too much.
If you usually sleep on your back, remember to put a pillow under your knees. This simple change can help relieve pressure on your spine.
If you prefer sleeping on your side, keep the pillow between your knees.
5. Quit Smoking
Smoking is one of the most damaging habits to our health – not to mention quite expensive. Among other negative impacts it has is the decrease of your body’s ability to recover from various injuries, including back and spine injuries.
Not to mention that second-hand smoking is harmful to everyone in your home, including your children. So, make the right choice for everyone’s well being: quit smoking.
Talk to an Experienced Doctor at Our Marietta Spine Center!
Whether you need treatment for back pain or advice for your spinal health, we are here for you. The doctors at our Marietta spine center will help you recover from various spine injuries and conditions and make sure that you do not reinjure yourself.
Reach out to us and schedule your first appointment at 770-000-0000!
