Sound Spine, Healthy Life

There tends to be lots of speculation as to how to keep your spine healthy and sound. In part, this is because each person has different health needs and different practices work for different people. There are a few things everyone has in common, however, to afford them a healthy back and, in turn, a healthy lifestyle. If a person feels great, their body works great. And if the body works great, a person will have a better work, family, and social life.  Follow this blueprint for a sound spine and sound living.

Adjustments

The spine is the heart of the nervous system, which allows for all movement of the body. Without a sound spine, all the rest of the body will crumble. That is why it is absolutely crucial to keep your spine healthy and as youthful as possible. In my opinion, the best way to keep the spine corrected and working properly is to get regular adjustments - regular meaning at least once a month so as to keep your health in check. This would ensure optimal range of motion for better physical wellness. Since spinal problems are such a great indicator of other nervous system functions, this monthly check up may even bring awareness of other issues you might not have considered.

Hydrate

Most people do not drink enough water, which can be an underlying problem for a whole multitude of things. Lack of proper hydration can lead to muscle cramps, dizziness, fatigue, and many others.  Relating to chiropractic and spinal health, water is essential to regulate body temperature and lubricate joints. It is the main highway for nutrient transport that feeds energy to your muscles to keep you healthy. Without water, your body simply will not perform optimally. As a rule of thumb, you should follow the “8x8 rule” hat says to drink 8 ounces of water 8 times a day for a grand total of 64 fluid ounces.

Strengthen

Many patients are surprised to learn that the most important muscle group to strengthen for overall back health is the abdominals. This muscle group makes up the majority of a person’s core, which helps to keep the spine in working order. Most people have a weak core from prolonged sitting or lack of movement, and strengthening this area is hard work!  However, no matter what your level of spinal health, there are still some exercises everyone can do.  Strengthening these muscles will bring the most stability to your spine.

Stretch

Invest in the life of your spinal health and stretch – often! This will elongate your muscles and bring you optimal comfort in everyday movement. Some people think of stretching as a long, painful process for long term happiness. This is not the case. Just stretching short periods of time, little by little, can make for changes you will feel immediately. Stretch while sitting at your desk for 30 seconds, or while in the doorway of a coworker. Make like your dog (if you have one) and stretch your legs as soon as you get up in the morning. These small practices can really pay off in the long run, leaving you feeling limber and happy.

These four rules of the health blueprint will help your life to be less complicated! At times, it may seem that the walk to optimal health of any sort can be murky. Keeping these four practices in mind, baby steps each day can make a huge difference in well being! Overall, if you want improved movement, greater function, and stronger performance choose to work toward that healthy, happy spine!