5 Ways You Can Prevent Back PainWhile many people associate chronic back pain with car accidents and other traumas, this medical condition can also easily result from normal everyday activities. The bending, stooping, and twisting actions involved with picking up boxes or carrying shopping bags are a very common cause. Sitting in front of a computer for long hours every day is another. Fortunately, there are some simple preventative measures that we can take to reduce the risks of chronic back pain considerably.  We offer urgent care walk-ins in Los Angeles for those with severe pain.

Back Pain Can be Prevented

  • Sleep on your side: Sleeping on our back or stomachs can result in a slight curvature of the spine, adding unnecessary stress and tension that can lead to chronic back pain. If you sleep on your stomach, consider placing a pillow under your lower abdomen. Having the proper mattress and head pillow is also essential. Getting enough deep sleep is an important factor for good health. Also, those who exercise regularly tend to sleep much better at night, as well.
  • Eat properly: When we eat a well-balanced diet, we maintain a healthier body weight. Those few extra pounds from overeating or an unhealthy diet can place extra stress on the spinal column. Also, eating a lot of spicy food can wreak havoc on the digestive system, which can easily contribute to chronic back pain. Strive to include lots of leafy vegetables, fruits, lean meats, and whole grains into your daily diet. If you eat properly, your digestive system located next to the spine will function properly and reduce the risks of chronic back pain.
  • Watch your posture: People who slouch over computers while sitting at a desk all day are highly susceptible to chronic back pain. Watch your posture, even when texting or talking on the phone. Consider purchasing an ergonomic desk chair for your home office or workstation. And break up long periods of sitting with short visits to the desks of office co-workers or through performing some simple stretching exercises.
  • Quite smoking: We all know that smoking can lead to cancer, heart disease, and many types of breathing disorders, but smoking can also lead to persistent back pain. In fact, smoking can even exacerbate existing conditions to even higher levels of pain and discomfort. Although medical science cannot yet determine the specific reasons why smoking leads to back pain, many believe that the blood vessels in the back become slightly narrower, resulting in less oxygen and nutrients reaching the spine.

Making these few, simple changes to your daily routine can work wonders in relieving back pain. Another helpful tip is to reduce the amount of stress in your life, as well. Stress and anxiety cause the back muscles to become automatically tense. To reduce stress, try meditation, yoga, or some deep breathing exercises throughout the day. You’ll feel better in no time.