Keeping the Spine Healthy as We Age!

As we age, we experience aches and pains, some of which are natural signs of aging, and some that are a result of our lifestyle. It’s important to learn to distinguish between the natural changes in our body as a result of age and the pain that is unnatural or is preventable.

The spine ages as we do, losing thickness and elasticity as time goes on. It means we are not able to withstand the normal day-to-day strain, making us vulnerable to both chronic and acute injuries.

How our bodies ages depend on our genetics, but lifestyle choices also have an impact on how WELL the body copes with aging. It’s never too late to start living an active lifestyle and enjoying all the benefits that come with it!

Get Active!

Regardless of age, a sedentary lifestyle can be harmful to musculoskeletal health. Staying active and incorporating some exercise into your daily routine can increase flexibility and mobility.

Low-impact exercises like walking and swimming are good ways to get started. Regular exercise offers great benefits including better stability, reduced inflammation, improved mobility and much more.

Joining group-based activities are also a great option since they offer a supportive community!

Before beginning any exercise routine, it is important to seek advice from a CAA chiropractor or other healthcare professional to devise an exercise plan suited to your ability.

Whether it’s a short stroll, a long walk or an exercise program approved by a healthcare professional, staying active can help you stay healthier for longer.

Posture!

Great posture is another incredibly important key to keeping your spine healthy. It is never too late to correct poor posture habits. Make it a priority to correct your posture as you go about your day. Instead of slouching or hunching, try your best to keep your spine in a neutral position. It is also advisable to avoid sitting or standing in the same position for long periods of time.

Stretch!

Daily stretching will help you maintain joint flexibility, improve stability and also help relieve stiff muscles. It can also help with increasing range of motion, but it is important to perform stretches correctly. Consult your chiropractor to gain a better understanding of how to perform stretches correctly and to find out which stretches are best for you.

Take extra care when doing stretches that may require balancing and be sure to modify stretches to suit what your body can do.

Was that helpful? Please, post (in the comments below) your best exercise. I would like to know.

To your health,

Dr. Tony Rump

PS: I’m inviting you to check my Entrepreneur Summit: Health, Wealth and Sanity http://healthwealthandsanity.com/