Health Habits

It’s generally well understood that maintaining good overall health can help patients minimize disease and maximize activity while protecting against injury. Good physical health can help prevent spine problems, such as chronic back and neck pain.

By now, you’ve probably heard about how harmful it is to sit behind a desk for too long. Research has shown that periods of prolonged sitting can lead to an increased risk of diabetes, heart disease, and even some types of cancer.

Many patients ask me what kind of mattress is best to purchase if you are suffering from back or neck pain or recovering from surgery. While no two people are alike, and everyone's back problems may be different, here is some general information to help you make an informed decision.

Proper training is important to prevent or minimize injuries from winter sports. Skiing and snowboarding require strengthening your leg muscles, improving your flexibility and getting your CORE stronger.

Wintertime can be stressful enough; don't add the strain of back pain. Follow these simple tips to avoid back injuries and keep the cold months pain free and healthy.

Summer is a time to get outside and enjoy some fun in the sun. But outdoor exercise, yard work and even those much-needed family vacations can be hard on your back. Remembering a few simple tips can help you to avoid injuring your back or neck during this time of increased activity.

The back is designed to be strong and flexible, but like everything else, it has its limits. Lifting something too heavy, overdoing it on the ski slopes, court or ball field, or spending too much time at the computer without the proper ergonomics can lead to short-term or chronic pain. As we age, something as simple as bending down, sleeping on the wrong pillow or turning your head too quickly can cause problems.

I've often said that maintaining your health and weight is the most important factor in keeping your body in the best possible condition. Even with back, neck and spine problems, your overall fitness is the best way to ensure a lifetime of pain-free, healthy living.