Thanksgiving is quickly approaching, and the holiday season is in full swing. With holiday preparations, menu planning, and travel plans all underway, have you thought about your back in all the hustle and bustle? Thanksgiving can pose some serious health risks for your joints and spine. Learn how to protect your body over the holidays with these health tips.
Practice Proper Lifting
Travel during the holidays often means heavy backpacks and suitcases. Unfortunately, the risk of a back injury is real when lifting them into and out of the car or airplane storage compartment. To prevent back injuries and your spine health, bend and lift at the knees when lifting heavy things. Proper lifting technique is also crucial if you’re serving a big turkey on Thanksgiving! Having someone assist you will help you avoid back injuries. Even though it may not be the ideal lifting method, your body will appreciate it if you reduce the load on your back and joints.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
For Thanksgiving dinner, we all want to look nice, but the meal prep time is not ideal for your nice shoes. When getting ready, wear comfortable shoes or sneakers that are cushioned and supportive to support your joint health. Your pelvis, hips, and knees will have a much easier time staying in alignment. A grippy sole will also reduce the risk of slip and fall injuries, which can be very painful. Then, when it’s party time, find your party shoes!
Take a Break
Too much standing, whether it’s at the airport or in the kitchen, can fatigue and strain your muscles and can even compress your spinal discs. Instead, take frequent breaks by using a stool or a chair at the counter while prepping. Also, you can start preparing the day before, which will prevent you from being overburdened on the big day. You will not only create less stress for your body but also your mind.
Be Thankful for a Healthy Back
Don’t forget to take some time for yourself during the hectic days leading up to Thanksgiving. Regular chiropractic adjustments will keep your body functioning optimally and provide an opportunity for you to escape for a bit of time to yourself while keeping your joint and spine health in good condition. So if you want to be thankful for a healthy back, follow our health tips and schedule an appointment today at Livingston Chiropractic.
