Love Your Spine: The Importance of Back Care

One in six Australians (4 million people) are experiencing back problems. Back injuries are the leading cause of disability, preventing many people from being able to work and enjoy physical activity.

The health of our back is integral to our well-being. Despite the serious consequences of injuries, many of us forget to take care of our back.

In support of World Spine Day (October 16th), this week we are taking the opportunity to remind you to #loveyourspine by giving you more information on back care.

Common Effects of Back Injuries

Your lifestyle affects the risk of back injury. If your job requires heavy lifting, or you’re frequently putting pressure on your back, you may be more susceptible to injury.

It’s not until you hurt your back that you realise how debilitating an injury can be.

Here are some common effects of a back injury:

Pain

Back pain can come from muscle strain, pressure on the nerves in the spine, and joint inflammation. It could also be a sign of other illnesses. You may feel pain at the site of the injury or down your legs. Pain can limit movement, and get in the way of daily activities.

Loss of Mobility

Back injuries cause stiffness, inflammation and weakness which affects mobility and balance. People who experience loss of mobility are forced to change their lifestyle. They may need time off work, particularly if their jobs are physical. They may also have to limit exercise, walking, and driving. The loss of movement is dependent on the severity of the injury.

Loss of Strength

Back injuries can result in a loss of strength, such as not being able to pick up objects or the ability to stand upright for long periods of time. Because messages are sent between the body and the brain via the spinal cord, if the spinal nerves are damaged or irritated in an injury, communication between the brain and muscles is inhibited. 

Emotional Distress

Even minor back problems can affect your mental health. If your movement has been compromised you won’t be able to do physical activities such as work, exercise and social outings. Chronic pain can also wear you down. Back injuries can result in boredom, frustration and in some cases, depression. 

How Spinal Manipulation is Effective in Treating Spinal Injuries

Spinal manipulation is an effective chiropractic technique we use to treat back injuries. How does it work? Spinal manipulation aims to reduce joint inflammation and pain. It works to restore the structural integrity of the spine, improve nerve function and initiate natural healing processes.

What exactly does spinal manipulation entail? Spinal manipulation involves adjusting your spine through applied force or pressure to the spinal joints. There are many different movements your Canning Vale chiropractor may use during an appointment.

5 Tips on Caring for Your Back

Your lifestyle has a profound effect on the health of your back. Here are our tips to take care of your spine and avoid injury:

Move Your Body

Our bodies are designed to move. Exercise strengthens your muscles, and helps to improve flexibility and posture, decreasing the risk of injury. Exercise increases blood flow to the muscles and soft tissues of the back. This helps loosen muscles and increase range of motion.

Sleep

Adequate rest is just as important as exercise. It gives your body a chance to heal and recover from injury. Sleep lowers stress hormones and gives your nervous system time to reset. When you are tired and run down, your overall health suffers. You are also less able to make healthy choices which can indirectly affect the way your backs functions.

Eat Well

Chronic pain is often a result of inflammation. Certain foods increase inflammation and others help to control it. Refined carbohydrates and simple sugars are known to be inflammatory, whereas fruits, leafy greens, whole grains, nuts and legumes are known to be anti-inflammatory. A balanced diet provides the fuel your body needs to function optimally. 

Stretch

Stretching loosens muscles and reduces tension. It improves movement, strengthens muscles, and helps to maintain a healthy posture. A strong, mobile body reduces the likelihood of back injury. Stretching can also help to relieve pain in some cases. Your chiropractor will suggest stretches you can do to improve function. Yoga is also beneficial.

Visit your Perth chiropractor

Are you having back issues? It’s tempting to ignore the pain and hope it heals itself. But avoiding treatment could result in a more serious injury. Canning Healthcare can help to find the cause of your back pain and create a treatment plan to heal the area. Our team will also offer advice on how to improve your physical activity and day-to-day movements to ensure recovery and prevent further injury.

Call 9455 2959 to speak to us today complete the form below and our staff will call you back!

Would you like more tips on caring for your back? Check out these exercises and stretches.