Tips to Save Your Back

The muscles, ligaments and discs of your back do a big job, supporting your spine and moving the weight of your body. Good posture, exercise and correct body mechanics help keep it flexible and strong. Massage can help with posture by stretching shortened muscles and fascia (the connective tissue that surrounds your muscles and other tissues), freeing movement around the joints, and relieving muscle contractions that can pull you out of alignment.

Help protect your back by moving with a little thought. Here are some tips to help you move correctly.

1.    Spread your feet shoulder-width apart for stability when moving or working. Stand evenly on your two feet.

2.    Practice feeling your center of gravity in your abdomen. Many peo­ple try to move from their upper bodies, which is less efficient than moving from your pelvis, hips, and abdomen. Practice strengthening exercises for your abdomen. Take a class or ask for advice from an exercise instructor or specialist.

3.    To pick up a load, stand close to it. Squat and use your legs to lift it, keeping your back upright and the object close to your body. Avoid twisting as you lift.

4.    Kneel down on one knee to retrieve something from the floor.

5.    When reaching for an object overhead, keep your shoulders and hips facing it — don’t twist.

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*** Massage should not be considered as a replacement for professional medical treatment: a physician should be consulted in all matters relating to health and especially in relation to any symptoms that may require diagnosis or medical attention. In some cases, a primary physician’s approval/prescription is required before any bodywork is administered. Care should be taken during pregnancy, particularly in the use of essential oils and pressure points. Essential oils should not be ingested, and should be used for babies and children only on professional advice.

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