When you experience back pain, sometimes you don’t even know what you did to cause it. Skip the suffering and discover how you can prevent it from happening again. Even if you’re not an avid athlete, you can probably use an athlete’s guide to back injury prevention.
Your Spine Is a Beautiful Thing
Our spine is our backbone and a complex structure that supports our body. It consists of small bones (vertebrae), cushioning connectors (discs), nerves, joints, ligaments, and muscles. It helps us to sit, stand, walk, twist and bend.
80% of Americans will have back pain at some point. It is very susceptible to injury, so treat it right!
Preventing Back Injuries
Warming up is key
Taking at least 5 minutes to increase oxygen and blood flow to your muscles pays off. Preventing injuries on the field starts with light cardio and stretching to wake up your muscles.
Consistent exercise
Exercise regularly to keep your spine healthy. Engaging in exercise 3 to 5 times per week is a great way to maintain your physical fitness, strength, and flexibility.
Skip it if it doesn’t feel right
Don’t keep playing, exercising, or even warming up if something doesn’t feel right. Rest for a day and try again. If there is any pain that is severe and doesn’t go away, it may be time to see Anderson Orthopaedic Clinic.
Keep your weight in check
A recent article in SPINE told us that overweight people were three times more likely to visit a hospital for back injuries than someone at a healthy weight. Proper nutrition is a necessary component to avoid strain on your back.
Talk with the spine experts at Anderson Orthopaedic Clinic throughout Alexandria and Arlington, VA
Find out if you are physically able to perform the sport you love. Most times a back injury is a sprain or strain. If you happen to have a degenerative disease or some other disorder that can compromise your back, it might be time to rethink your favorite sport.
Keep your core strengthened
Strengthening your core will help to prevent damage from repetitive motions like when playing golf or throwing a baseball. Concentrate on crunches and Pilates exercises to strengthen the muscles protecting your spine.
Contact Anderson Orthopaedic Clinic at (703) 892-6500 if you have pain in your neck or back due to sports or exercise that is severe or won’t go away. Our spine experts are here to help provide diagnosis and treatment options so you can get back to doing what you love.
