Its that time of year we have all been waiting for ! Lots of food and lounging on the couch , holiday shopping involving heavy grocery bags , and big heavy presents . This is all a recipe for you to be laid up with back pain and maybe a “ special “ eggnog . The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimate that over 50,000 people every year sustain some sort of winter-related back injury, and 5,800 of those are holiday-related

So How can you get through the holidays pain free ?

LIFT WITH YOUR LEGS !

Under stand how to lift those heavy bags of groceries or that big expensive flat screen you bought to surprise little Johny, the correct way. Stand as close to the object as possible, bend your knees . drive through your heels, lift with your legs and using your back as an accessorize muscle . And when in doubt ! Ask for help!

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SIT UP STRAIGHT !

While you lounging around eating cookies and watching holiday movies , SIT PROPERLY  . By sitting up straight your keeping your body in proper alignment and preventing muscle pain that comes from prolonged slouching  .

             Correct                                                                  Incorrect

STRETCH !

Something as simple as standing up , reaching down to touch your toes , while keeping your legs straight can help keep your lower back from getting too tight . And the best part  , YOU CAN DO IT ANYWHERE !  While your shopping , in the kitchen , or while your watching “A Christmas Story” marathon .That 10 – 30 second stretch can elate the “Bah Humbug” of lower back pain.
Exercise Exercise Exercise !
Keep your lower back strong as well as keep your body healthy by continuing or even starting a workout routine.
Something as simple as walking 20 minutes a day ,doing 10 squats in the kitchen while your making cookies, or even planking under (or by ) the Christmas tree can keep your lower back healthy and keep you moving pain free through the craziness’ of the holiday season ( as well as providing a little stress relief from shopping and cooking )

Any questions ? Leave a comment , I love to hear your feedback !

Till next time

You stay Fit  America ,

Ken