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Current and Breaking News for Professionals, Consumers and Media |
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Dr. Goldstein offers some helpful tips to help spare you from aches pains and from far more serious injuries: Handbag & knapsacks: Large bags may seem fashionable and practical, but beware. Oversized and heavy bags can cause problems including muscle spasms, slipped disks and herniations. Never carry a bag that is more than 10 percent of your body weight. If you must carry a heavy bag, switch it from side to side, alternating the weight load. If you carry a knapsack, make sure the weight is distributed evenly and that you slip it on both shoulders. If you ignore this practical advice and choose to carry a heavy bag, you may develop neck or back pain and need to invest in a designer neck collar to match your bag. High Heel Hazards: Stepping out in shoes that have a “fashionably” high heel (from three to five inches) may look great, but can cause dangerous stress on your hips and lower back. Dr. Goldstein says, if you must wear high heels, try wearing flat, supportive shoes en route to the office and changing when you get there. Mattresses Matters: Though mattress warranties may be good for ten years, they cover defects, and won’t protect you against discomfort or bad support. Mattresses do get old and will not support your spine as well when worn. A good mattress accommodates for the individual curves of your spine. Toppers like foam cushions are a good way to rejuvenate your mattress. Proper pillows: The average life span for a pillow is two years. So sleeping on an old pillow -- whether you’re a side, back or tummy sleeper -- may not provide adequate support. Sleeping with your neck in its most natural state is what matters most. The right pillow – and a good quality pillow -- can help. Dr. Goldstein says: · If you sleep on your back use a medium firm pillow and for extra added comfort put a small pillow under your knees. · If you sleep on your side, a medium-firm pillow that cuddles and supports the neck is best. Putting a pillow between your knees can help take the stress off your hips. · For stomach sleepers, a soft pillow with a gentle slope is best. For additional comfort, put a small pillow under your tummy to help keep the spine’s natural curve. Headset Help: If you work at a job where you are constantly on the phone, be sure to wear a headset. This will prevent stiff neck and back pain. Office Chair Syndrome: Sitting in an office chair for prolonged periods of time can cause low back pain or worsen an existing back or neck problem. So take a walk. The next time you have to speak to a co-worker, stroll over to their office instead of sending an email or picking up the phone. If this doesn’t help, try doing a few easy back stretches. These can make a dramatic difference in how you feel. In addition to using these everyday items wisely, Dr. Goldstein also advises that aerobic exercise and activity will keep the muscles in your back strong. The most important muscles to strengthen are your abdominals which help keep the spine in check. Stretching routinely will prevent stiffness, which can lead to injuries. www.med.nyu.edu/hjd/hjdspine/ www.HealthNewsDigest.com Top of Page 
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