Since bending over is such a common action, most people put little thought into it. However, if you experience frequent back pain, improper bending could be the culprit. To help you keep your back comfortable, here’s what you should know about bending over.

How Do Most People Bend Over?

The majority of people in the United States bend at the waist, forcing their backs into “C” shapes. This method puts stress on the spine, particularly the spinal discs, which are the rings of collagen located between each vertebra. Since spinal discs can’t handle large amounts of movement, repeatedly bending at your waist can lead to back pain or a slipped herniated disc that may cause further pain.

How Should You Bend?

Instead of bending at your waist, bend at your hips, which are designed for maximum movement. Known as a hip hinge, this form of bending keeps the spine neutral, significantly reducing the amount of stress on your back muscles. Also, bend the knees, though the focus should remain on your hips. If you concentrate too much on your knees, your back may round too much, which can cause pain.

In addition, keep your shoulders in line with your hips; when switching directions, move your hips first so your shoulders follow. If you move your shoulders first, your hips may lag behind and cause you to twist, a common source of back pain.

Finally, remember to brace your core; this prevents irritation of unstable joints by supporting your spine and pelvis. To form a brace, tighten your stomach muscles. If you find this difficult, try laughing and using your fingers to feel your stomach muscles naturally tighten. They should feel the same way when you bend over.

If you’re experiencing back pain, turn to the trusted team at Eastern Hills Chiropractic. For more than 30 years, lead chiropractor Dr. Matthew Haumesser and his caring team have provided effective chiropractic treatments to patients throughout Cincinnati, OH. Emphasizing holistic care, they also offer massage therapy and nutrition counseling to keep your entire body healthy and strong. Learn more about their commitment to comprehensive chiropractic care online, and call (513) 528-2200 to schedule an appointment.