Whether for good or for worse, most of us end up having a memorable Christmas. From legendary hangovers to epic after dinner bellyaches and rampant wrist strain from wrapping too many gifts, even the festive ailments are unforgettable.
While traditional advice is not to gripe at Christmas, we're encouraging our users to BELLOW about lower back pain. The festive season is rife with risks for spinal health and, if you are suffering, getting prompt treatment and advice is just as important in December as any other time of year.
Don't wait for back pain to ruin your Christmas. Take steps to protect your health by getting plenty of sleep, eating lots of veggies and avoiding actions which lead to stiffness and soreness. Remember, you can use your exercise rehab plans from Easy Physio to maintain mobility and manage pain (without waiting for a doctor's appointment).
Keep these back boosting tips in mind when celebrating Christmas in 2019!
- To avoid the dreaded 'Turkey Lifter's Back,' always bend at the knees when picking up heavy items, be they turkeys, tables, Christmas trees or family pets. Be sensible. If you can't lift it, ask for help. That macho moment isn't worth the pain, trust us.
- Christmas movie marathons are great, but they can be tough on the body. To prevent muscle stiffness, avoid sitting (without movement) for longer than one hour. Every hour (at a minimum), get up and use your limbs. The best time to try exercises for lower back pain is after a prolonged sitting session - wake your body up!
- The same applies to long car journeys! If you must make them, make time for breaks and gentle back stretches. For those with a history of poor back health, it might be worth buying a lumbar support cushion.
- When party time arrives, don't be tempted by uncomfortable shoes. Ideally, those with back pain should avoid high heels altogether. If you can't bear to make an entrance without them, carry a spare pair of pumps. Set the heels aside after arriving in style and dance the night away in flats. That way, you get glamour and comfort.
- This one is tougher than it sounds but it's worth trying to minimise stress levels at Christmas. Stress releases a hormone called cortisol which, in large amounts, causes inflammation throughout the body. To beat back pain, don't lose your cool.
- Drink plenty of water no matter what you're getting up to this Christmas. Whether partying, shopping, cooking or playing Monopoly, you need to stay hydrated. Dehydration negatively affects every part of the body including the spinal discs.
- Think of pain as a warning sign. Even if you have no prior history of back problems, don't ignore chronic discomfort. Stop the activity. Seek advice as soon as possible after the Christmas period if your pain progresses or continues to be debilitating.