5 Habits of a Pain-Free Back: Tips to Ease Back Pain From Doctors, Specialists and Experts

Simple lifestyle changes may be all you need to feel good! Closer reveals tips to ease back pain from doctors, specialists and other experts.

Get Moving to Ease Back Pain

According to Cleveland Clinic pain management expert Dr. Tara-Lin Hollins, “Avoiding exercise can make back pain worse. Try to keep moving and walking around as usual. Movement relieves pain and strengthens your muscles, helping you prevent a future episode of pain.” In other words, a brisk walk or light exercise can’t hurt the situation.

Eat Right to Maintain a Healthy Weight

Per specialists with Johns Hopkins Medicine, “Some diets are highly inflammatory [which can lead to pain], especially those high in trans fats, refined sugars and processed foods. Maintaining a healthy weight could also help lessen back pain by reducing pressure on your spine.”

Practice Good Posture to Limit Back Pain

Standing too straight, looking down at your phone or computer screen, or hunching over at your desk can contribute to back pain,” say doctors at UNC Health. “Depending on how you stand, sit and sleep, over time you can actually change the shape and curvature of your spine.” To avoid this, one easy thing to do is “when you’re standing, you should keep your knees slightly bent while bearing your weight through your heels with your knees bent.”

Wear Proper Shoes to Ease Back Pain

“Shoes are often a common culprit of minor back pain,” explain the experts from N.J. Spine & Orthopedic. “Try opting for comfortable, low-heeled shoes to prevent back pain or alleviate pre-existing pain. Try avoiding shoes without an arch as well, like flip-flops.”

Be Careful to Lift Objects Correctly to Avoid Back Injuries

According to UC Davis Health, “When you lift something heavy, it’s very easy to twist the wrong way. This can lead to muscle spasm and pain. Use proper body mechanics by engaging your leg muscles, not your back, when you pick up heavier items. Get help if the item is too much for you to lift alone.”