Low back pain causes more disability worldwide than infections, heart disease and cancer. New research published in The Lancet states that up to 10% of people are suffering with low back pain at any one time.
Professor Rachelle Buchbinder from the Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine at Melbourne’s Monash University states that: low back pain is on the rise – a consequence of ageing populations, increasing obesity and sedentary lifestyles.
A call for more funding
In her study, she states “With ageing populations, it is highly likely this burden will increase, suggesting the health and research priorities that governments and others give to low back pain should be increased.”
Low back pain is recognised as a national health priority by the Australian government, but to date it has not been considered a priority for research, treatment or public health interventions.
What can I do?
At Parade Chiropractic, we get asked everyday by our patients – “what can I do at home to prevent low back pain?”
Chiropractic Tip No 1
1. Stay Active – Regular exercise is one of the most effective ways to eliminate low back pain, but you don’t need to do as much as you think. A 20 minute intensive walk 3-4 times a week is all you need to get started. Start small, and build from there.
Chiropractic Tip No 2
2. Have your spine assessed – Is your spine supple, and moving freely? Are you stiff or do you feel pulling when you move? Can you turn your head side to side easily? So often I hear people say, “I just bent over to tie my shoe and my back went”. It is not the movement that’s the problem, it was just the final straw. What lead to your spine being in an unhealthy state? Chiropractors can assess your spine and help you get back in shape so your body can take on life’s challenges more easily.
Chiropractic Tip No 3
3. Eat Real Food – A diet full of good fats, protein, fruits and vegetables are a crucial component to any healthy body. Your diet can effect the health of your discs, which are responsible for weight and shock absorption. Your diet can affect the health of your bones, which provide strength to your spine and protect your nervous system.
Chiropractic Tip No 4
4. Think Positive – A healthy mind is a healthy body. Depression and chronic pain are directly linked. Seek professional help if needed, and try stress reducing activities such as simple exercise like walking, meditation such as mindfulness and healthy eating.
Chiropractic Tip No 5
5. Your core could be the core of your problem! Core muscles are not just your abs, they are a group of muscles the support, stabilise and protect your spine. They wrap around your whole trunk and need to be kept active and strong. Core exercises should be tailored to your imbalances and weaknesses. Book a consultation today to have your core assessed.
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