Everyday Habits That Are Hurting Your Bank

In the January 28th, 2015 edition of Healthy Living From Everyday Health I found this article on back pain. Chronic neck and back pain are common, but do you realize that your everyday bad habits can be making your pain worse? Your muscles are used to the constant slouching and other bad patterns you’ve developed, which can eventually lead to pain. But taking better care of your back is easy once you replace your bad habits with healthy ones.

1. You Don’t Have a Healthy Diet
   Being overweight puts extra pressure on your joints and nerves. Not only will eating a balanced diet make your heart healthier, but it can also help reduce inflammation, which can trigger pain.
2. You Live in High Heels
   They force your back to arch, which makes the muscles in your back work overtime. High heels also throw off your balance big time. Consider wearing more comfortable shoes.
3. You Have Poor Posture
   Years of poor posture can really do a number on your back. Whether you’re on your feet or hunching over your computer all day, it’s hard to find relief from your pain. Do some stretching and sit/stand up straight.
4. You Don’t Do Yoga
   Increased stress levels can actually trigger chronic pain. Through different poses and breath work, yoga helps to promote deep relaxation, which can help your mind—and your back—feel at ease.
5. You’re Sleeping on a Mattress from the 20th Century
   Old mattresses can cause you to wake up with aches and pains because they don’t offer the support you need to keep your back in proper alignment. Consider replacing your mattress every 10 years.
6. Your Backpack or Purse Is Too Heavy
   The American Chiropractic Association recommends that your backpack or purse weigh no more than 10% of your total body weight. Any more than that and it could be hurting your back badly. In addition to cleaning out your backpack or purse, try to switch off which shoulder you carry it on. If you always wear the strap on your one shoulder, your shoulders become unbalanced, which can make your back pain even worse. You also may want to invest in a messenger bag which goes over your head and slopes over one shoulder therefore distributing the weight more evenly.