It’s summertime and the living is easy… unless you are suffering from back pain. People tend to be more active during the summer because of the nice weather. While exercise is beneficial, people with back issues should be careful not to take on too much too fast. Dr. Leipzig and the staff at Virginia Spine Care would like to share a few simple tips to help you avoid aggravated back pain during common summer activities.
Summer vacation may get you out of your desk chair, but long road trips or plane rides require a lot of sitting too. If you take a long road trip this summer, remember to take frequent rest stops so you aren’t sitting for too long at once. During each stop, stretch or walk around to activate and loosen your back muscles. A rolled towel or pillow can help support your lower back and/or neck. You may also want to bring an ice pack, in case your back pain acts up. The same goes for air travel, except you should probably walk the aisle (when it is allowed) instead of asking the pilot to take a rest stop.
Many people enjoy gardening when the sun is out. Even if you don’t keep a garden, you probably have lawn work on your to-do list. Mind your back during these home projects. Maintain good posture, lift with your legs and try to avoid too much bending at the waist. Take your time and remember that “Rome wasn’t built in a day.” Don’t hesitate to spend more than one session completing your garden or lawn care.
Golfing is a popular summer sport, but if you lack well-developed core strength, a day on the course can bring back pain. Golf requires a lot of bending at the waist and using different muscles than most everyday activities. Just carrying a heavy bag of clubs over one shoulder can be risky. Try a pull-cart bag to lighten your load and be sure to keep good posture and stretch thoroughly before and after golfing.
If you are an avid golfer, you may want to read Sean Foley’s “4 Steps to Save Your Back” about maintaining a powerful but safe golf swing.
Have a wonderful summer! If you experience significant back pain or have an ongoing back condition, contact Dr. James Leipzig at 540-725-9771 .
Dr. Leipzig is a board-certified, Salem, Virginia spine surgeon with over two decades of experience. He specializes in procedures including robotic spine surgery, microsurgical lumbar surgery, disc arthroplasty, minimally invasive spine surgery, and more, serving the greater Roanoke, VA area. To learn more or schedule an appointment, please contact our office.
