Simple Things You Can Do To Protect Your Spine
Your spine health is important to your overall health. From standing up straight to lifting heavy objects to walking around your house, your spine supports you in almost every activity you undertake.
At Raleigh Spine and Pain Center in Raleigh, North Carolina, we understand the importance of maintaining a healthy spine. Our team offers a variety of treatments for patients experiencing spine pain.
We also believe prevention is the best medicine, so under the guidance of board-certified neurologist and interventional pain management physician Daljit S. Buttar, MD, we’ve created this guide outlining some simple things you can do to protect your spine.
1. Maintain a good posture
Having a proper posture isn't just about looking tall and confident. It's about aligning your body to minimize stress on your spine.
Whether sitting at a desk or standing in line, try to keep your shoulders back and your head aligned with your spine. If you need to work on a computer for extended periods, make sure your monitor is at eye level to avoid neck strain.
2. Lift objects safely
Lifting objects improperly can put tremendous strain on your spine. Always bend at the knees, not the waist, and use your leg muscles to help with the lift. Keep the object close to your body, and avoid twisting your torso during the lift.
3. Stay active
Regular exercise not only helps keep your body in shape, but it also helps your spinal health. Engage in activities that strengthen your back and abdominal muscles, as these muscles support your spine. Even simple exercises, such as walking or swimming, can be beneficial.
4. Improve your sleep position
Your sleeping position can significantly impact your spine. Although some people can find it difficult, the best sleep position for spine health is lying flat on your back. Side sleeping is also a good position, but stomach sleeping can lead to spinal issues.
It may also help to invest in a supportive mattress and pillow, because this could help reduce stress on your spine. If these options aren’t comfortable for you, talk with our team at Raleigh Spine and Pain Center, and we can give you guidance.
5. Manage your weight
Carrying extra weight, especially around your midsection, can put added pressure on your spine. Maintaining a healthy weight by eating a healthy diet and exercising can alleviate this stress and contribute to overall spinal health.
Treating spine problems
Spine conditions can be complex. In fact, they can share symptoms with other conditions and be difficult to diagnose. If you're experiencing persistent back pain or other spine-related symptoms, seeing a specialist, such as Dr. Buttar at Raleigh Spine and Pain Center, is key to getting an accurate diagnosis.
Dr. Buttar offers comprehensive assessments and personalized spine treatment plans tailored to each patient’s unique needs. Depending on your underlying issue, he may recommend:
Regenerative medicine
Regenerative medicine utilizes the body's natural healing processes to stimulate new cell growth and repair damaged tissues.
Spinal injections
These targeted injections can reduce inflammation and pain and promote healing.
Decompression therapy
This nonsurgical treatment gently stretches the spine to alleviate pressure on pinched nerves or compressed discs.
Radiofrequency ablation
This minimally invasive procedure uses heat to reduce nerve pain in the spinal area.
Spinal cord stimulation
A spinal cord stimulator, which is implanted in the lower back area, delivers electrical impulses to interrupt the pain signals going to the brain.
Surgery
If conservative treatments aren’t effective, surgical intervention might be necessary to correct anatomical issues or reduce pain.
With extensive experience and board certifications in neurology and pain medicine, Dr. Buttar is committed to providing effective care that focuses on the patient's overall well-being and quality of life.
To learn more about protecting your spine, or to get treatment for your back, call 919-867-3176 or book an appointment online with Raleigh Spine and Pain Center today.