Who’s got your back?

How important is your back really? Well, let’s put this into perspective. When you reach for your toothbrush, your arm is connected to what? When your feet chase a toddler or your legs run a forgotten lunch to the bus stop, thank your back. So much of what we do ties into a healthy spine. So why do our backs often elicit the biggest grunt when we roll out of bed in the morning?  All too often we take this essential structure for granted, giving it no option but to bemoan our neglect to grab our attention. It’s time to give this piece of afflicted anatomy the TLC it needs. Try these simple tips.

Tip #1: Think moderation.

What a lot of people don’t understand is that extra pounds on the body add stress to your back. Most moms pack their purses with all sorts of junk. My go-to phrase? “It’s better to have it and not need it than to need it and not have it.” If you’re too intimately acquainted with this outlook, let it go! Carrying that kind of negativity in your life or your purse isn’t healthy, trust me! That phrase singlehandedly excuses most, if not all, of my unhealthy snacking and unneeded purse packing. And both those habits add unnecessary stress and weight to my back. So whether you pack it in a bag or pack it in your belly, remember to keep it light and think to yourself, “Hey, do I really need this?”

Tip #2: Stay hydrated.

The average adult human body is composed of 60 percent water. The rest of your body is made up of natural gases and elements. It is believed that the average person should consume at least half her body weight in water daily. This habit, according to Medical News Today, gives your body the necessary muscle and bone support it needs. Staying hydrated can cushion the brain, spinal cord and other sensitive tissues. When you’re thinking of your back, think of water too.

Tip # 3: Don’t rob yourself of a good night’s rest.

Some of the best doctors recommend six to eight hours of sleep. Doctors give this advice to improve body functionality. Some say for the brain, others say for muscles, but sleep actually benefits both! Body rest is also beneficial for the bones. The body needs rest to actively function and to process daily challenges. Most people don’t know this, but the spine needs time to relax too. Did you know the discs in your spine hydrate when your body rests? No wonder our backs complain to us so often.  We try managing a long eight-hour day of work (some parents more), the kids’ daily activities, dinner and the bedtime fight—we’re lucky if we get a solid five hours of sleep. So how can we fix it? As difficult as it may be, map out time throughout the day to rest. Invest in a high-quality bed. If you only get a solid six hours of sleep, make it the most comfortable six hours of sleep you’ve ever had. Buy that Serta mattress, foam mattress topper, plush body pillow or even that down comforter you’ve been eyeing. The more comfortable you are, the easier and quicker falling asleep will be.

Last, but not least, know your limits. If the pain in your back progressively worsens or you consistently experience pain, make an appointment with a specialist or your primary care physician. Ignoring symptoms can cause more harm than you think. Overall, a little kindness and care will ensure you and your back get along just fine.

Jessica Samuel lives in Kansas City and is a freelance writer and photographer.

As always, please consult your health care provider with any questions or concerns.