Chronic back pain causes constant discomfort, and a herniated disc is a common source of this problem. Also called a bulging disc, it occurs when trauma forces the disc from between the vertebrae and creates pressure on the surrounding nerves. It can be extremely painful, and the staff at Back to Health Chiropractic in Florence, KY, advise that you should protect yourself from this injury. Below, they share several tips for herniated disc prevention that you can practice to preserve your spinal health.

3 Ways to Prevent a Herniated Disc

1. Learn Proper Lifting Form

Many herniated discs occur when people lift something heavy incorrectly. Whenever you’re doing any heavy lifting, practice proper form. Never lift with your back—keep your spine straight, and let your legs to the lifting. Ideally, you should wear a back brace, especially if you’ve had previous back injuries that have required a chiropractor.

2. Strengthen Your Core

Many people work out their abs and ignore the rest of their core. Your lower back muscles and obliques are essential as well, so work them out regularly to give your spine more support. There are numerous at-home exercises you can do, so speak with a chiropractor about a personalized regimen based on your needs.

3. Maintain a Healthy Weight

Your spine deals with constant strain while trying to support your body when there’s extra weight, which can lead to constant pain, weakened muscles, and a weakened spine that’s more susceptible to injury. Ask your primary care physician for options to reduce excess weight, and remember to eat balanced meals and include light activity in your daily routine to avoid further weight gain.

If you’re dealing with existing pain or injuries, turn to the staff at Back to Health Chiropractic. Their skilled team believes in personalized treatment and will work closely with you to diagnose any issues and build an effective plan. They can address a variety of conditions, including lower back pain, neck pain, and more, and they will help you achieve pain relief. Call (859) 746-2222 today to schedule a consultation with a chiropractor. You can visit their website to learn more about their practice and connect with them on Facebook for regular spinal health advice.