Habits You Should Kick For a Healthy Spine

We’re all guilty of having a bad habit or two. Whether it’s biting our fingernails or drinking too much coffee, we all have those guilty pleasures that we know we shouldn’t do. But did you know that some unhealthy habits can actually have a direct impact on your spine? Today, our Bournemouth chiropractor reveals three bad habits that could be harming your spine.

Smoking

It’s no secret that smoking is seriously bad news for your health. Puffing on cigarettes can lead to a number of health issues, such as increasing the risk of lung cancer and stroke, but it can also be damaging to the spine.  

How?

Smoking damages blood vessels that supply healthy blood to the spinal structures. The damage from smoking can also decrease the height of spinal discs, which can contribute to pinched nerves and herniated discs. Kick your smoking habit and your whole body – including your spine – will benefit!

Texting

Our mobile phones can be so damaging to our spines that a new term has even come into modern healthcare  – text neck. This refers to pain and symptoms in the cervical spine as a result of bending your head forward to look at your phone and send a text. While it is unrealistic to expect anyone to quit texting altogether, you can limit the amount of time you spend on your mobile. And when you do text, make sure you keep your phone out of your lap. If it’s down there, you’ll naturally lean forward and keep adding stress on your spine. Instead, hold your phone out in front of you and keep your head positioned over your shoulders when texting.

 Not Exercising

Exercise benefits the entire body, but it’s particularly important for your spine. Your backbone is an intricate structure that relies on receiving healthy blood flow. It also requires strengthening of supporting muscles and structures. Exercise is one of the most popular and effective prescriptions for back pain, so make sure you are getting enough physical activity.

Swapping bad habits for good ones can go a very long way in improving the health of your spine. It’s never too late to make healthy and positive changes, so start thinking about the habits you can kick today. The benefits will be worth it – trust us!