Tips for a Healthy Back this Summer

Summer time means increased activity and increase stress to your back. Here are some tips to keep your back and spine healthy this summer:


Let Your Legs Do the Work: Warm weather often means increased yard work, cleaning out the garage and various other forms of activity. Taking a moment to think about your posture during tasks such as these is a simple way to help prevent injury. It may be one of those statements you have heard over and over again, but bending and lifting with your legs uses larger muscles to get the job done and spares those smaller (and more easily injured) muscles in your back.


Consider Your Footwear: Individuals who enjoy activities that involved standing, walking or running may benefit from a new pair of running shoes or properly fitted orthotics to balance and support the spine from the ground up. Health issues related to the foot and ankle can often lead to more severe pain in the knee, hip and low back.

Summer Sports Require Stretching: Just like your car needs to be warmed up in the winter before driving, your body need to be warmed up before even the smallest of athletic events. Stretching your muscles by lightly going through the motions you might encounter in your sport can help to improve your performance and prevent injury. You should have a smooth, pain free range of motion during these movements.

By following the above tips you will be on your way to a fun and healthy summer! As always if you would like to prevent problems from occurring, or alleviate pain and discomfort call to make an appointment for an adjustment. Placing ice on sore areas, as well as applying Biofreeze can help reduce inflammation. Consider an orthotic foot scan with Dr. Barry if you are experiencing any discomfort in your feet.

If you have specific questions or concerns regarding your activity level, please ask at your next visit or email Dr. Barry at doctorbarry@SpineSmart.com. Happy Summer!

Southern Illinois Chiropractic Center
Dr. Barry DeLassus
2-B Professional Park Drive, Maryville, IL 62062
(618) 288-7991
www.SpineSmart.com