Prevent Lower Back Pain

By Andrea Starr
Back problems are one of the top medical problems in the United States. Many of these are occupational related but also many come from sports in the home. Is estimated that over $45 billion a year is spent on back related problems. Nearly everyone has low back pain at some point. It seems to most often occur to those between 30 and 50. This is most often associated with the aging process. However, many types of back pain are also preventable as well.
The lower back consist of the spinal column. It is generally referred to as the five discs just below the thoracic cage. This is often referred to as the lumbar. These bones are stacked one on top of the other creating a column.
 Each disc of the lumbar is separated by soft tissue areas. The soft tissue consists of tendons, ligaments and muscles. These provide for the flexibility of the spinal column. Maintaining the flexibility of these soft tissue areas helps with the vitality and longevity of the lumbar.
There are a number of serious conditions which can affect the lumbar. A herniated disc can cause much chronic pain because of a nerve being pinched. Fibromyalgia is also a chronic disorder known for its widespread pain. These can be extremely tough to cope with.
There are other certain situations which we have full control of. We control how we stand and our posture. We also control are sitting position. Another critical area is lifting objects. By being aware of the proper techniques, we can help minimize stresses and strains on our lower back.
Many of us work at a desk and have a computer. We may have to sit for long hours at a time. Having the proper sitting position is important to avoid problems in the lumbar. It is important to have an ergonomic chair which supports the spine and the arms. It should be adjustable so it will comfortably fit your body.
Many of us just have poor sitting habits. We may not properly support our backs by leaning too far forward or leaning too far back. We also do not want to sit for long periods of time. It is in order to get up and walk around after sitting for a while.
 When you stand, do you slouch? Many of us slouched by putting our shoulders forward and kind of functioning over. Instead we should put our shoulders back and our head up. Not only will this help our confidence it will tremendously help our backs.
 Probably the most problematic area is lifting objects. In addition to supporting your body weight, your spine must also support the object you are lifting. Most people lift with their backs and not their legs. The strongest muscles of your body are your legs; use them when you lift objects. It just makes sense.
It is important to lift objects properly by using your legs. It is like doing one big event. Put the object in front of you and bend at the knees until you can hold the object. Next straighten your legs back out while maintaining your back straight and in the upright position. This will put the weight of the object on your legs which are the largest muscles in your body.
One of the easiest methods to use for maintaining the health of the lumbar is with stretching. Stretching exercises can include walking, swimming and massage therapy. These movement therapies are used to improve the muscle balance and their flexibility. Start a routine of back healthy activities to maintain your mobility.
Make sure you keep to key concepts in mind for the health of your lower back. This area must be strong and flexible. Perform daily activities which improve the strength and flexibility of the lower back. This will help you to maintain the vitality of this important area. Remember your long-term mobility depends on the health of your lower back.
About the Author:
You can find many practical therapies that can help to relieve tension, aches and discomfort for the back. Get Back Pain Treatment with a massage chair to provide you with frequent massage therapy. See our Massage Chairs for Back Pain and find out how you can relieve your stress and tension.