Network of Ideas

Back to Basics!

Take care of your back with these quick tips:

- Sit up straight, don’t slouch, and walk tall.
- Develop strong back and abdominal muscles to help support your upper body.
- Stay in your ideal weight range to avoid straining your spine.
- Sitting puts a greater load on the lower back than standing or walking. While doing computer work, watching TV or reading, make sure to get up and move around.
- Buy comfortable chairs, sofas, mattresses and pillows. Replace furniture that cause back discomfort.
- If you must carry heavy bags, distribute the weight evenly on both arms. Wear backpacks over both shoulders, not just one.
- Use an infant carrier that can be slung over both shoulders. Better yet, bring a stroller.
- When picking up a heavy load, bend your knees and not your waist, keep the load close to your body, and lift without jerking.
- Strained your back? Take couple of days off for bed rest. Apply a hot compress to the painful area for 20minutes at a time. As the pain eases, do some gentle stretching exercise.
- Stay fit and active. Exercise can stretch shortened muscles, build strength and endurance, and maintain mobility of joints.

You may be interested in the following related articles as well.

• Snuff Out Heartburn
• Exercise to stay healthy!
• The only leg exercise you need!
• Fastest Way to Shape Your Abdomen?
• What A Simple Touch Can Do?