Every year on 16 October, people from around the world come together on World Spine Day (an initiative of the Global Alliance for Musculoskeletal Health) to raise awareness about spinal disorders and empower others to take charge of their spinal health.

 

With an estimated one billion people worldwide suffering from back pain, it affects all age groups, from children to the elderly. It is the biggest single cause of disability on the planet, with one in four adults estimated to suffer from back pain during their lives. Prevention is therefore key and this year’s World Spine Day will be encouraging people to take steps to be kind to their spines.

 

Our increasingly sedentary lifestyle is having a profound negative impact on our health and especially our spines. Back pain and other musculoskeletal disorders are on the rise and Australians of all ages are suffering. The good news is that it is possible to prevent such spinal health issues without the need for drastic measures.

 

The theme for World Spine Day this year is ‘Love your Spine’, emphasising the importance of looking after your spine and taking steps to prevent spinal disorders. Regular physical activity, good posture, lifting safely, healthy working conditions and lifestyle adjustments can improve spinal health and overall wellbeing.

 

Staying active helps spinal tissues and muscles stay healthy and eases the pressure on the spine. Whether it’s walking, running, swimming or taking regular breaks from sitting, Australians are encouraged to incorporate physical activity into their daily routines. Good posture also plays an integral role in optimal spinal health, as it allows the spine to be correctly aligned and reduces the amount of strain on the body.

 

Regular preventative care and maintenance Chiropractic care are also optimal spinal health. The better you treat your body and spine, the better it will treat you. Unfortunately, you can’t always see or know when there is a problem and regular check-up’s at the Chiropractor may help you stay ahead of potential health problems related to the spine that may significantly impact your quality of life. However, many people only see their Chiropractor when they have a problem like pain or immobility. What they don’t realize is that they may have prevented the issue had they been undergoing regular Chiropractic care.

 

Most people underestimate the positive effects that simple lifestyle changes and Chiropractic check-up’s can have on spinal health. World Spine Day is a great opportunity to assess your activity levels, posture and other lifestyle choices, and make sure you see your Chiropractor for that check-up.

 

Towards Wellness – Walking Makes you Happy

It’s true – exercise boosts your mood. Studies show that a brisk walk is just as effective as antidepressants in mild to moderate cases of depression, releasing feel-good endorphins while reducing stress and anxiety. So, for positive mental health, walking’s an absolute must.

 

S-T-R-E-T-C-H of the Month – Sun Salutation

Begin in a standing position and exhale as you sweep the arms up and overhead. Exhale and engage the abs as you tip from the hips and lower into a Forward Bend, with hands on the floor or feet–bend the knees if you need to. Inhale and come up until the back is flat and exhale into forward bend. Inhale and come back up, sweeping the arms overhead until palms touch. Repeat the series 4 to 8 times.