Watch Your Back During Spinal Health Week

May 1 to 7 is Spinal Health Week in Canada. Our spine is something we totally take for granted unless, of course, we injure our back or neck in some way. Sometimes we’re not even sure what it was we did to cause that twinge of pain. In fact, the cause of 85 to 90 percent of back pain is unknown.

Back problems are one of the most common chronic health problems in Canada with four out of five Canadians experiencing back pain at some time. An equal opportunity affliction, back problems affect men and women equally, usually occurring between the ages of 30 and 50. At least one out of every three medical visits is for a musculoskeletal problem.

Chiropractic associations across Canada are using this week to help raise awareness of spinal health. The British Columbia Chiropractic Association (BCCA) reminds us that most back problems can be avoided through proper care and attention when performing everyday activities.

Back care tips
Follow these simple tips to help minimize back problems and injuries:

• Exercise regularly. Walking, swimming, yoga, and weight training can strengthen your back muscles.
• Lose excess weight.
• When sitting, use a chair with a backrest. Keep feet flat on the floor or use a footrest. Change your position frequently, and get up at least once every 30 minutes.
• Use good posture whether sitting, standing, or walking. Avoid the shoulder hunch so common in many of us who work on a computer all day.
• When lifting objects, bend your knees and hips, not your back.
• Lift and carry objects close to your body.