Lighten your load When carrying heavy bags or backpacks, wear straps across both shoulders and ensure the load you carry weighs less than 15 percent of your body weight.
Distribute body weight evenly Avoid crossing your legs, slouching or leaning to one side when sitting.
Take hourly stretch breaks If you sit in front of a computer all day, stand for a couple of minutes each hour, to stretch your back, neck and shoulder muscles.
Use support Place a cushion in the small of your back for
balanced support.
Stretch Spinal flexibility and mobility is important when undertaking any kind of activity - simple or complex. So make sure you stretch well, to loosen up tight muscles.
Exercise Regular strengthening of muscles will help support your back.
Get a check-up Spinal restriction and misalignment can cause slight to severe pain. Always visit a chiropractor if back pain persists. Holistic Chiropractic, 19 Tanglin Road, #06-28 Tanglin Shopping Centre. Tel: 6733 1805, www.holisticchiropractic.com.sg
Posted May 2011
