This year during National Chiropractic Health Month, the American Chiropractic Association is focusing on the musculoskeletal (MSK) system and how MSK health builds strength and stability. Thus, it is important for people to take steps toward muscle and joint health, including better posture and preventing lower back pain.
The MSK system is comprised of the spine, muscles, bones, and joints. This system is what gives your body form and makes it possible to stand and move, so it must remain strong to live a full and active life.
The most common MSK complaint is low back pain, which can be debilitating. However, chiropractors can provide care that helps people improve MSK health by aligning the spine and providing relief of lower back pain naturally without prescription opioid pain medications. When your MSK system is functioning well, you will feel strong and healthier.
Ways to Improve Musculoskeletal Conditions
According to the American Chiropractic Association, more than one in two adults report experiencing a musculoskeletal condition such as back pain, neck pain, joint pain, arthritis, and osteoporosis. Research shows that these are the most commonly reported MSK conditions among those under age 65 and the second most common conditions for people who are age 65 and older.
It is no secret that MSK conditions can become more common as we age, but there are certain steps you can take for better MSK health. Good MSK health begins with good nutrition and ample hydration. Keep your spine healthy by loading up on proteins, vegetables, salmon, dairy products, herbs, fruits, and avocados. Drinking plenty of water and cutting down on sugary drinks will also increase MSK health.
Tips for a Healthy Spine
According to the American Chiropractic Association, approximately 80 percent of the population suffers from spinal pain at some point. People who are overweight and who smoke, lift heavy objects, or have had a previous episode of back pain are more likely to experience MSK issues. Because so many people suffer from spinal pain, it’s important for you to keep your spine as healthy as possible by keeping the following in mind:
- If you are standing for a long period of time, take the pressure off your lower back by keeping one foot slightly in front of the other with your knees somewhat bent.
- When sitting, keep your knees lower than your hips with your two feet planted on the floor. Your head should be looking straight and not bending up or down to look at your computer. Avoid slouching as this puts pressure on your lower back.
- If you need to bend to pick up items from the floor, do not bend over at the waist. Instead, kneel on one knee, keeping the other foot flat on the floor to pick the item up. Remember to bend at the knees, and lift with your legs, not your back.
- Everyone has their favorite sleeping position. If you are a back sleeper, it’s important to know that sleeping on your back puts approximately 50 pounds of pressure on your spine. So, putting a pillow under your knees while lying on your back will cut the pressure in half. Lying on your side with a pillow between your knees also reduces the pressure on your back.
Staying conscious of these tips will improve your MSK health. However, if you are experiencing ongoing pain, it’s important to see a chiropractor to examine and adjust your alignment. Call Merckling Family Chiropractor PC to schedule a consultation (631) 286-2300.
