Movements to Improve the Health of Your Spine

As we Floridians get older, or recover from injuries to the neck or back, it’s important to be conscious of that which we normally tend to neglect: the various movements we make that have an effect on the spine. Through being consciously aware of how we sleep, we can begin to inculcate physical habits that will become unconscious and natural over time while protecting our spine from further injury. Doing so also reduces and prevents neck and back pain as well. A few simple more appropriate movements follow as examples; a chiropractor in Naples, FL can provide more specific advice pertinent to one’s individual situation.

A chiropractor in Naples, FL may give more precise advice about sleeping positions; however, many people present to their doctors or chiropractors with stiff neck injuries or back pains that they seemed to develop while sleeping. This is a common malady, but can be corrected by sleeping in a way that may initially seem somewhat unnatural. Most people are able to adapt, however. If you sleep on your back, it is a good idea to place a pillow under both your head and shoulders, and put a clean, rolled rowel under your neck for full support. Also, place a rolled towel under your knees. This position will help you to maintain the three curves of your body that are supported by the curvature of your spine.

A supportive mattress is really necessary to truly conducive sleep. A chiropractor in Naples, FL will usually advise sleeping on a supportive mattress. You should be able to lie on your back in comfort, but not sink into the mattress like a heavy stone, or feel as though you are sleeping on cement because it is too stiff. When you go to sleep on your back if you feel tempted during the night to roll over onto your stomach, resist the urge with all your willpower!

If you prefer to sleep on your side, make sure your pillow is under your head, and that your neck is not twisted. Your neck should be level with the rest of your spine. Another pillow for support in front of you may be used to make sure your torso doesn’t move forward during the night and put your neck in an awkward position.

Whenever you are getting out of bed, don’t roll over and fall flat on the floor, but be conscious of your body positioning. Rise into an upward position slowly, and use your arm muscles to lift yourself up as you shift your legs to the floor.