Do This Not That to Avoid Herniated Disc

Herniated spinal discs result in painful symptoms and potentially complex treatment needs. Chronic back pain or neck pain may plague you after a disc shifts out of position, putting harmful pressure on the many nerves in your spinal column.

When it comes to disc herniation, an ounce of prevention is definitely worth a pound of cure. Dr. Beejal Y. Amin treats herniated discs from his locations in Hinsdale and Woodridge, Illinois. Here is his expert advice on what you should and shouldn’t do to avoid needing this type of treatment.

Posture dos and don’ts for disc herniation prevention

Your spinal column balances best when you maintain good posture, with all the spinal bones and spacing discs stacking correctly on top of each other. Poor posture can put unnecessary pressure on a point of your spine, potentially resulting in a disc herniation, or shifting out of place.

Make sure that, whether you’re sitting, standing, or resting, you keep your shoulders and neck in correct alignment. Habitually slouching or hunching increases your risk of a herniated disc. Regular stretching can help to reverse damage from past poor posture, relieving built-up tension and pressure in and around your spine.

What to do, and not to do, when lifting weights

Often, a disc herniates after you’ve lifted something heavy while using the wrong form. Here’s how you can avoid this.

Whenever you have to pick up something, whether very heavy or even lighter, pay attention to your physical form. Don’t bend at the waist to lift, as this can strain and stress your back. Instead, bend at the knees to squat down, keeping your back straight and well-aligned. 

Maintaining strong core muscles in your abdominal area and lower back also helps insulate your spine from the stress of lifting weights.

Lifestyle habits to adopt and drop for spine health

Your daily habits and health can impact your spine health. Is your lifestyle putting you at risk of disc herniation as you get older, or are your habits healthy for your spine and back?

When you’re at a heavier body weight, or when your body weight gets unevenly distributed, your back bears the brunt of the increased pressure. Maintain a healthy body weight for lifelong spine wellness by exercising regularly and making healthy dietary choices. Regularly wearing high heels that push your weight forward can also be bad for your back.

Smoking tobacco is a lifestyle habit that’s harmful to your spine. Chronic coughing contributes to your disc herniation risk due to the way it jars your body, and nicotine consumption can produce disc degeneration, as well. Talk to Dr. Amin about available smoking cessation support, and start quitting today if you smoke.

Genetic factors can make you more likely to experience a herniated disc, especially as you get older. To reduce your overall risks and improve your long-term back health, you should take control of the aspects of your life and habits.

For personalized advice and support, visit Dr. Amin online or over the phone today and schedule your consultation appointment.