Show Your Spine Some Love!

Valentine’s Day is just a few days away, and here at Wills Chiropractic, we are feeling the love! Valentine’s Day is typically spent showering the ones we love with gifts, affection, cards, and candy. In fact, millions of dollars are spent each year in the United States on Valentine’s Day. This year, we suggest you do some things a bit different and we challenge you to show your spine the love it deserves. Here are a few tips:

• Stretch. Stretching is a great way to get your blood flowing and body moving. Not only is it a great way to start your day, but bedtime stretches also relax your body and prepare it for rest. Stretching is crucial before exercising, as it gets your body warmed up and ready to work. Stretching also helps maintain muscle flexibility and reduces the risk of sports-related injuries. If you suffer from back pain, stretching can also help soothe and manage your trouble areas. Just ask for some stretch suggestions during your next adjustment!
• Increase Core Strength. A strong and healthy back requires a strong and healthy core. When you strengthen your core, you help remove some of the stress from your back. We would be happy to provide you with some core strengthening exercises to practice at home next time you come in for chiropractic care.
• Sit with Proper Posture. Many of our patients spend hours upon hours sitting. Whether it’s on the commute to work, sitting at desks, or sitting on the couch after a long day, it takes up most of our days. With all that time spent sitting, it’s easy to become complacent and fail to remain aware of your posture. If you practice poor posture, you put a great deal of unnecessary strain on your lower back. Try to remember to sit with your shoulders back and chest just slightly out with a straight spine. Make sure your weight is distributed evenly between both hips and it’s best to have both feet flat on the floor. These adjustments will help reduce strain on the low back and prevent back pain.
• Sleep with Proper Posture. Yes, you read that right. Proper posture isn’t just for sitting. When your body is at rest, is uses that time to recharge from a busy day. If you sleep with proper posture, you maximize your body’s ability to properly rest up. Try to avoid sleeping on your stomach, as that position can cause strain t your neck and spine. If necessary, chiropractic pillows are available to support your low back and neck and encourage proper sleeping posture.
• Weight Management. A few extra pounds here and there might not seem like a big deal, but that added weight can lead to a lot of extra stress on your spine. Make weight management a priority for your overall health and for the health of your spine, so it can better support your body.

We wish you a very Happy Valentine’s Day and encourage you to follow our challenge and show your spine some love. Click here to schedule an appointment and get back on the path to great health!