Dr. Sue Mulcahey's Newsletter |
May 2025 www.backdoctorsue.com |
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Spring Activities and Back Pain: How to Avoid Discomfort With the arrival of spring, many people eagerly engage in outdoor activities like gardening, hiking, and sports. While these activities offer physical and mental health benefits, they can also lead to unexpected back pain if proper precautions aren't taken. Strenuous movements, repetitive motions, and poor posture can strain the spine and surrounding muscles, causing discomfort that dampens the joy of the season. Gardening, a favorite spring pastime, often involves prolonged bending, lifting, and twisting, all of which can contribute to lower back pain. To prevent strain, use ergonomic tools, take frequent breaks, and maintain good posture while working. Lifting heavy objects, such as bags of soil or pots, should be done with the knees bent and the back straight to avoid injury. Consider using raised garden beds to minimize excessive bending and stress on the lower back. Spring sports and recreational activities like golf, tennis, and running can also lead to back pain, particularly if participants jump into action without proper warm-ups. Stretching before and after physical activity can help loosen tight muscles and improve flexibility. Additionally, using supportive footwear and ensuring proper technique can reduce unnecessary strain on the spine. Listening to your body and resting when needed is essential in preventing overuse injuries. Home improvement projects and yard work, such as painting, raking, and mowing the lawn, can also put significant stress on the back. To avoid discomfort, alternate tasks, use tools with long handles to reduce bending, and take breaks to stretch. Strengthening core muscles through exercises like planks and gentle yoga can provide better spinal support, reducing the risk of injury. By being mindful of body mechanics and incorporating preventative measures, you can enjoy all that spring has to offer without unnecessary pain. |
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