Spinal diseases refer to symptoms caused by changes in bones, discs, muscles, and ligaments of the spine that stimulate the spinal cord and the nerve. Those diseases are mainly manifested as neck and shoulder pain, headache, dizziness, lumbosacral pain, and even lower limb pain, inability to stand upright, etc. In severe cases, they may lead to paralysis, causing adverse effects on the quality of patients’ life. Nanoori Hospital provides various minimally invasive surgical treatments including spinal fusion, and vertebroplasty, to help patients return to their healthy lives.
Habits to Protect the Lower Back
When Sitting:
Let your entire back touch the back of the chair and put the legs slightly higher than your hip.
When Lying:
Lying on the back or on the side can reduce pressure on the lower back. Lying on the stomach is not good for spinal health.
When Carrying An Object:
Avoid lifting heavy objects. When you lift an object, bend your knees and hold the object close to the body. Then, use your leg muscles
to rise.
When Getting Up From Bed:
Turn your body to the side, then use your hand to push the bed or floor away from your body and slowly get up.
When Holding A Baby:
Carrying a baby on the back is better for your spinal health. When holding the baby in front, hold the baby close to your body.
When Driving:
Let your entire back touch the back of the seat. Take a 10-minute break or stretch every once a while when traveling long-distance.
Exercise:
Going for a brisk walk or an easy hike is a good exercise for your lower back. However, remember not to over-exercise.
Spinal Health Management
Correct Posture:
A correct posture helps maintain spinal health. If you have a sedentary lifestyle or tend to slouch, be sure to release the tension in your back by stretching and correcting your posture.
Exercise:
Exercise regularly to strengthen the lower back muscle and increase its flexibility.
Walk:
Walking is the best exercise for patients with spinal problems. Walking 30 minutes a day can improve spinal health.
Periodic Spinal Examination:
A periodic spinal examination is important for early detection and prevention of severe spinal diseases.
Visit Specialized Hospital:
If you feel pain while walking or exercising, you must visit a specialized hospital for an accurate diagnosis and proper treatment.
Eat Healthy:
Eat healthy to maintain weight. Take a sufficient amount of high-protein food, such as tofu, fish, and low-fat meat.
Rest First when in Severe Pain:
When feeling acute lumbar pain, lie down immediately, and put a pillow under the knees. Take a rest, and visit a doctor once the pain eases.