Wednesday, July 28, 2010

How to Prevent Back Pain?

A lot of us may have experienced back pain which can stop us from all daily activities. It's very painful when back pain comes. Many reasons causes back pain, such as poor posture, lifting and handling incorrectly, poor workplace design, poor physical fitness, smoke, stress, etc. We would like to share some tips of preventing back pain.

1. Lifting Safely.
Safe lifting involves using your legs instead of your back.Don't lift by bending over. Lift an object by bending your hips and knees and then squatting to pick up the object. Keep your back straight. The object should be close to you, ideally right under your body. Avoid twisting your body.


2. Push rather than Pull.
When you have to move a heavy object, to push is always better than to pull. The motion of pulling creates more stress on your back.

3. Stretch Your Body.
If you have to sit at your desk or in the car for long, please break up the time and stretch your body.

4. Keep Your Posture Right.
Sitting puts more pressure on your back than any other position, even more than standing
. To reduce the pressure, sit in chairs with straight back or back support. Even when you're driving, it's good to have a back support or pillow to support your back.


Our Contour Freedom Back Support Cushion is a good option. As you can see it correct your posture and relieve some pressure from your spine.

When Standing, try to maintain good posture. Keep y our ears, shoulders and hips in a straight line with your head up and stomach pulled in. If you have to stand for long, rest one foot on a low stool to relieve pressure on your lower back. Every 5-15 minutes, switch the foot you're resting on the stool. Move around as much as you can.

The best posture to sleep to reduce the pressure on your back is to sleep on your side with your knees bent. Put a pillow under your head to support your neck. It's also good to put a pillow between your knees. To sleep on your back, you should put pillows under your knees and a small pillow under your lower back. Try not to sleep on your stomach unless your put a pillow under your hips. Use a firm mattress will help. If your mattress is too soft, here is a solution for it - Contour Mattress Remedy.




The patented inflatable support bladder sits between your mattress and box spring. The bladder connects to a hose and hand pump. Position the bladder and use the hand pump to adjust the mattress, eliminating any sags or depressions and restoring mattress support.






You can see the difference of your spine.

5. Be Active! Bicycling or walking is very good for your back. Remember to warm up before you start any exercise. Some exercises can help your back, especially yoga. Here are a few yoga poses that you can try. Please note: if it's severe back pain, we suggest that you go to your doctor first.
(1) Pelvic Tilt


If you find it hard to see how to do this pose, you may also take a look at this youtube video.



(2) Supported Bridge Pose






(3) Reclined Big Toe Pose





(4) Supine Spinal Twist