How to Keep Your Spine Happy
When your spine is happy, life is easier. A happy spine moves better, experiences less pain, and recovers from injury quicker.
So, what can you do to make sure your spine is happy? Follow these helpful tips.
Nourish your spine with healthy foods. A happy spine is a healthy spine-and healthy foods will help keep your spine well. As a general rule of thumb, your diet should consist of mostly foods that would ‘decay’ if left sitting out and unrefrigerated-things like veggies, grass-fed meats, and fruits. Foods high in calcium are also great for preventing common conditions like osteoporosis. Hydration is also key!
Give your spine support. This goes beyond sitting in an ergonomic chair. Supporting your spine means strengthening important muscles to help keep your body upright-particularly the core. Strong core muscles will help give your spine the extra boost it needs to stay in proper posture. Strengthen your core with focused exercises designed to awaken sleepy muscles, combat weakness or build the endurance of stabilizing muscles.
Use the right pillow at night. Not every pillow is created equal! When you climb into bed for the night, you want to use a pillow that promotes the natural curve of your spine and neck. For side sleepers, try a thicker pillow to keep your head and neck held steady between your shoulders. For those who sleep on their back, choose a pillow that doesn’t prop your head up too high as to not disrupt the natural curve of your neck.
Wondering what else you can do to keep your spine happy? Make regular care part of your wellness routine. Contact us today to book a visit.
Apr 20, 2021 at 9:53 AM
Calcium I believe is not enough to prevent osteopenia, never mind osteoporosis. If your body is acidic, calcium will continously leach from bones into soft tissues, no matter how much calcium is absorbed, and once there causes so many coronary problems. After a generation of prolific milk drinkers, why do older folks experience so many broken bones? That crunch may be good for your abs, but I don't believe twisting, flexing and extending your spine is good for it, which Stuart McGill teaches must be kept neutral, if I understand his teaching.
Apr 21, 2021 at 8:38 AM
We appreciate your feedback and agree that any nutritional and fitness programs should be custom designed with each individuals health, goals and needs taken into account. These posts are intended to resonate with as many people as possible so they can start a conversation with their healthcare provider about how these recommendations may help improve their own health.