Like your home, odds are your spine could probably use a little spring cleaning after a long winter and on the heels of a pandemic. Dust off the cobwebs and work towards a better and healthier version of your spine this spring. In today’s blog, we share some tips for how you can give your spine a spring cleaning-style boost.
Jumpstarting Your Spine Health This Spring
When we talk about spring cleaning for your spine, we’re referring to some things that will help prepare it for increased activity that is typical for the warmer months here in Minnesota. If you came here because you wanted some tips on how to protect your spine during household spring cleaning tasks, you’ll want to check out this blog.
Here are some tips for giving your spine a nice little spring cleaning-style boost as the weather warms up.
- Head Outside For More Activity – We’ve been cooped up inside for too long because of the winter weather and the global pandemic. Now that the weather is improving and things are getting somewhat back to normal, it’s time to spend less time inside on the couch and more time upright and outside. Movement, exercise and sunshine will go a long way for your spine and whole body health.
- Take It Slow – When you’re spring cleaning, you don’t try to do all your chores in one day. The same idea holds true for activity and your spine. If you haven’t been as active during the winter and the pandemic, ease back into physical activity. Go for a long walk or a light jog, don’t try to run five miles your first time out this spring. Doing too much as you start back in an activity routine can be a recipe for injury.
- Mind Your Posture – Activity is great for your spine, but you also need to be cognizant of your spinal positioning during these activities. If you’re hunched forward when running or you’re bending at the waist instead of the knees during other outdoor activities, your spine can take a beating. Bend at the knees and try to keep your head positioned above your shoulders instead of hunched forward to help take pressure off your cervical spine.
- See A Specialist – If you’re dealing with nagging pain or chronic low back pain, don’t just assume that it will get better just like the weather. Actively treat the problem so that you can really enjoy life this spring and summer. Let a spine specialist like Dr. Sinicropi provide you with an accurate diagnosis and an individualized treatment plan.
- Re-evaluate Your Diet – Give your spinal health a reboot by reexamining what you’re putting in your body. Excess carbohydrates and refined sugars can lead to spinal inflammation and limited range of motion in your spine. Not only can changing your diet prevent these problems, but it can also provide your spine with vitamins and nutrients to fuel healthy tissue growth. Improving your diet can also help to prevent fracture risk, especially with heightened Vitamin D intake. Rethink your dietary habits this spring.
For more tips on how to improve your spine health, or for help putting a stop to your back pain, reach out to Dr. Sinicropi and his experienced medical team today at (651) 430-3800.
