5 Tips to Combat Back Pain
According to the American Chiropractic Association, up to 80% of the U.S. population will experience back pain at some point in their lives. But there’s good news! There are a number of things you can do to combat back pain and improve your quality of life. Let’s take a look at five tips that can help.
#1 Check if it’s time for a mattress replacement. If you’ve been struggling with back pain, one of the first things you should do is check your mattress. If it’s more than seven years old, it might be time for a replacement. A supportive mattress is important for keeping your spine in alignment while you sleep, and over time, mattresses lose their ability to provide support. The Foam Factory is a great place to start, as they have a wide range of options on offer.
#2 Stretch it out. Stretching can help relieve tension in the muscles and improve range of motion in the joints. A simple way to incorporate stretching into your daily routine is to do some basic stretches when you wake up in the morning or before going to bed at night.
#3 Invest in a good office chair. If you have a desk job, chances are you spend a lot of time sitting during the day. Unfortunately, sitting for long periods of time can lead to back pain (not to mention other health problems). Investing in a quality office chair that provides adequate lumbar support will help keep your spine properly aligned and reduce strain on your back muscles.
#4 Lift weights—but be careful! Lifting weights can actually help reduce back pain by strengthening the muscles that support the spine. However, it’s important not to overdo it—lifting too much weight can lead to further injury and increased pain. If you’re new to weightlifting, we recommend working with a trainer who can teach you how to lift properly and avoid injury.
#5 Get regular exercise. Exercise is important for overall health, but it can also be helpful in managing back pain. Walking is a great option if you’re just getting started with exercise, but any type of moderate-intensity aerobic activity will do the trick. Just be sure to check with your doctor before starting any new exercise routine; they may have additional suggestions based on your particular situation.
Back pain is no joke—it can seriously interfere with your quality of life. However, there are a number of things you can do to manage back pain and improve your overall health.