The spine is the backbone of your ability to move, sleep, and function properly. Without a healthy spine, your everyday tasks and movements, including sitting, walking, and bending, can become painful or extremely difficult. In addition, if your spine is injured, you can expect to experience limited mobility or an inability to move normally. Maintaining a healthy spine will help reduce the chances of experiencing back or neck pain in the future. Here are a few simple ways to keep your spine healthy.

1.   Consider physical therapy

Physical therapy can be an effective way of maintaining a healthy spine. It works on building and stretching the muscles that are essential in making your spine more resilient and stable and makes you less susceptible to injury.

Visiting a physical therapist or orthopedic surgeon at your local wellness center can help determine whether the pain in your neck or back is an acute or chronic issue. In addition, they can help determine whether the condition needs further intervention or treatment and tailor a program to meet your specific needs.

2.   Wear comfortable, supportive shoes

The shoes you wear are vital in supporting your back, whether exercising, taking a regular walk, or waiting in a queue. Proper footwear offers a comfortable and supportive base that allows the spine and body to remain aligned. Well-fitting shoes also prevent over-supination or pronation and too much foot rolling inside or outside. Consider getting orthotic footwear customized for your physical condition or feet, or use inserts if you require further balance and support.

3.   Eat a well-balanced diet

A proper diet is essential for maintaining a healthy spine. Eating a diet rich in calcium, vitamin D, and potassium can help prevent spinal disorders such as osteoporosis and osteoarthritis or at least help prevent flare-ups from occurring. To be sure you are getting what you require, consider supplementing your diet with minerals and vitamins.

4.   Maintain a healthy weight

Being overweight puts extra pressure on the spine since you carry more weight. In addition, excess weight can lead to other diseases or physical conditions that may further impair your spine or intensify existing problems. The best way to maintain a healthy weight is through exercise and a balanced diet. Maintaining a proper diet and staying active will help you lose the extra weight straining your spine.

5.   Practice a good posture while sitting

Your lower back, specifically the discs, is usually under a lot of pressure when you are sitting, so sitting for an extended period of time can create or aggravate a back condition. In addition, many people tend to slouch or lean forward when sitting at a desk, which may stress your lumbar discs even more.

Choosing the appropriate ergonomic office chair and practicing appropriate posture while seated can go a long way in holding up the natural curves of your back. An ergonomic office chair can help reduce back support, enhance good posture and help alleviate back pain while sitting.

Endnote

Taking care of your spine is a part of staying healthy, happy, and flexible as you age. Following these essential tips will help you live the healthy lifestyle you are looking for and avoid painful problems in the future. While you might not be able to do all these practices at once, incorporate them into your daily routine, and you will be on your way to a healthy spine.