How to Prevent Low Back Pain

Four out of five adults will experience significant low back pain sometime during their lives. Work-related back injuries are the nation’s number one occupational hazard, but you could suffer back pain from activities at home and at play too.

You Are at Risk for Back Pain if:

• Your job requires frequent bending and lifting
• You must twist your body when lifting and carrying an object
• You must lift and carry in a hurry
• You are overweight
• You do not exercise regularly or do not engage in recreational activities
• You smoke

Reduce Your Risk of Back Pain by:

• Planning what you want to do and don’t be in a hurry
• Spread your feet shoulder width apart to give yourself a solid base of support
• Bend your knees
• Tighten your stomach muscles
• Position the load close to your body before lifting
• Lift with your leg muscles. Never lift an object by keeping your legs stiff while bending over.
• Avoid twisting your body. Instead point your toes in the direction you want to move or pivot in that direction.
• When placing an object on a high self, move close to the shelf. Do not stand far away and extend your arms with the object in your hands.
• Maintain the natural curve of your spine; don’t bend at the waist
• Do not try to lift something that is too heavy or an awkward shape. Get help
• Use the correct lifting technique.
• Exercise regularly to keep muscles that support your back strong and flexible. You should do specific back pain exercises if back pain is a problem.
• Don’t slouch. Poor posture puts a strain on your low back
• Keep a positive attitude about your job and home life. Studies show that persons who are unhappy at work or home tend to have more back problems and take longer to recover than persons who have a positive attitude.

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If you suffer from low back pain, a Saint Vincent Sports Medicine specialist can treat the problem and help you learn how to prevent it from reoccurring. Speak with a specialitst today by calling 814-866-3466.

Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.