The spine is perhaps the most essential structural part of your body. It has several functions and faces constant demands regularly. In addition to its skeletal structure, the spine is composed of nerves, muscles and ligaments which serve as the core connection areas that help your body to function. Because of its key functions, it is necessary to maintain your spine in the best condition in order to maintain a good overall health. The following are lifestyles strategies that individuals can apply in order to maintain a healthier and supple spine.
1. Practice Proper Movement & Biomechanics
Movement and biomechanics are very essential components towards maintaining a strong and healthy spine. These may include running, jogging, swimming, Yoga, biking and performing chores at home such as cleaning. Movement and flexibility of the spine enhances normal functioning of joints and reduces risks of injury to the spine.
2. Create an Exercise Program
One specific exercise is performing back and abdominal workouts. The back and abdomen rarely get sufficient exercises from day-to-day routine. The back and abdominal muscles require toning so that they can support the spine and relieve tension from the lower back. Back and abdominal exercises are easy to perform and can be done for 20-30 minutes of a regular routine. 
Stretching regularly is also critical to the back and neck. The spine move in various directions and it should therefore be stretched in different directions. Tight hamstrings are normally significant causes of back pain. Tense hamstrings can pull the base of the pelvis forcing it to turn backward thereby causing change in posture and also increasing pressure on the entire spine.
Yoga is another exercise that offers great benefits to the spine. Regular Yoga helps to improve the movement across the entire body. It improves the flexibility and agility which are important in reducing the chances of persistent and spinal injury.
However, caution should be taken if you have back and abdominal problems as exercises may add pressure on your spine
3. Seek Professional Spinal Care
Consulting with professional for spinal care can go along way toward maintaining a healthy and supple spine. A spinal professional can assist you to break apart blockages and maintain optimal spinal health, as well as steer you in the right direction to attain better spinal health.
If you’re dealing with a severe issue of the spine, perhaps the best course of action is to visit an orthopedic, or experienced spine surgeon. Many spinal surgeons are capable of fully-assessing your condition with X-rays and CT scans, and will often provide a number of non-surgical treatments and referrals before suggesting going under the knife. And if the need for surgery is recommended, consider all minimally-invasive spine surgical treatments first, as the process and recovery time will go much smoother.
Consulting a chiropractor is one of incredible ways to protect your spine. A chiropractor has the expertise to perform manual manipulation to streamline the vertebrae of the spine. This eliminates pain and support optimal healthy functioning of your entire body. The chiropractic care also strengthens your back and keeps it healthy which makes your body strong and healthy.
You can also consult an active release practitioner for massage. Massage has various therapeutic advantages as well relieving stress. A proper massage has an effect of releasing endorphins which not only enhances a feeling of pleasure but also act as a natural painkiller. Massage enhances blood circulation in your spine which increases relaxation and circulates healing nutrients in case of a back pain.
You may also consult a physical therapist (PT). This expert can help you to reduce pain and improve your spine without costly surgery and at the same time reduce prolonged use of prescription medicine. PTs can also teach you on how to prevent spinal injuries to help you achieve long lasting benefits. They can also develop fitness and wellness-based lifestyle strategies that can improve your spinal health.
The post 3 Long-Term Tips to Keep Your Spine Supple & Healthy appeared first on Kick Off Your Heels.
