Seems like just about everyone has a backache at some point in their life. Back pain is such a common part of modern life that many people just accept it as normal and try to get by as best they can. However, at O’Hara Chiropractic, we believe that back pain doesn’t have to be part of your daily life. Chiropractic treatment from can help immensely, but you can also help yourself. Here are some effective tips to prevent back pain from O’Hara Chiropractic.

WATCH HOW YOU LIFT

Since poor lifting technique is a common cause of lower back strains and sprains, make sure to use proper form every time. No matter what you are lifting, try to keep your back straight and use your legs to do the bulk of the work. Often when we get tired, we forget to use our legs and just bend at the waist. This is a good way to get injured though. Do not to twist your body when holding a heavy object. If you need to turn, move your feet until your body is facing the right direction.

SENSIBLE EXERCISE

Exercise is a vital part of good health for a variety of reasons. It also comes with a risk of injuring your back if you don’t exercise properly. Whatever type of exercise you choose, take the time to warm up properly beforehand. It’s easy to jump right in and start lifting weights or play a sport, but your back muscles are still cold and tight. Find an exercise that is within your fitness range and protect your back before, during, and after with a cool down.

AVOID PROLONGED SITTING

Generally speaking, people sit far more than they used to. In fact, prolonged sitting has been likened to the dangers of smoking. Many professions require long hours at a computer, and when you sit all day long, you’re compressing the discs in your spine. It can take a toll on your health unless you take action. The human body is designed to move. While you may not be able to switch professions, you can get up and walk around a little each hour to take some pressure off your spine. You could even set an alarm to remind yourself to take a stroll around the room. If you’d like more back pain prevention tips, call O’Hara Chiropractic in Clear Lake, Iowa today.