If you spend a significant amount of your day engaging in sedentary activities, making movement a priority is essential for protecting your low back from injury. Lack of movement throughout the day causes the muscles and joints in your low back to
become stiff, weak, and prone to injury in the long run. Making even small changes to your
daily routine to incorporate more movement can help prevent low back pain, as well as
improve your health and wellbeing.
5 Daily Habit Tips For A Healthier Lower Back
- Take Frequent Breaks
Take a five-minute break from sitting every hour to stand up, stretch, and walk around for a
couple of minutes. This can help prevent stiffness and pain in your low back by improving
circulation and flexibility. Use a timer or app to remind you that it’s time to get up and get
moving! - Try an Adjustable Desk
If you spend a lot of time working on a computer, an adjustable sit-stand desk can help you vary
your posture throughout the day. Switching from sitting to standing will help reduce strain on
your low back and even burn more calories throughout the day. Just remember that any
posture that is sustained for too long is a bad posture, so be sure to still move often even when
standing and sit down if you start to feel tired. - Stretch or Move During Screen Time
Watching TV or using a screen for a while is a great opportunity to stand up, stretch, or even to
do some light exercises like squats or lunges in between episodes or during commercial breaks
to break up the time spent sitting. - Exercise Regularly
Regular exercise is key to protecting your low back from pain and injury. Exercise helps
strengthen the muscles of your low back making you more resilient to the stress and strain your
body encounters every day. Try to incorporate at least 30 minutes of moderate intensity
activity into your daily routine, such as walking, running, cycling, or swimming. Choosing
activities that you enjoy will help you stick with it over time as well. - Establish a Mobility Routine
Mobility is an important part of keeping your low back healthy. Incorporate stretches into your
daily routine to help release tension in the muscles of your low back and increase flexibility. Try to aim for at least 5-10 minutes a day, focusing on stretches that target the muscles of your back, hips, and hamstrings.
Your back is happiest when its moving! When it comes to protecting your spine, even small consistent changes can make a big difference. As always, remember to listen to your body and consult a healthcare professional if you experience any pain or discomfort. If you would like to seek support from our Chiropractors or Physiotherapists in Mississauga, call us or book online. We can help your lower back pain!
