Back pain is one of the most common health problems that we treat at our Edina acupuncture clinic. Many of the bad habits we develop that can induce back pain are repeated poor choices in our everyday lives that cause blood stagnation and/or tax our kidney acupuncture channel.
Let’s look at some of the common problem areas:
1) Sleep:
We spend about one-third of our lives sleeping so it makes sense that how we sleep is going to have a huge impact on how we feel in our bodies. A major factor that can make or break our backs is our sleep position. The best position is sleeping on your back or using a pillow between your legs. Second best is sleeping on your side. The worst in sleeping on your stomach. Avoid this at all costs because it is the worst for your spine.
Sleeping on the wrong mattress is another common mistake. Finding the right one can be a challenge as there isn’t one type of mattress that’s best for everyone. The best mattress to keep your spine aligned depends on your body type, hip size etc., so shop around! The right mattress and sleeping position is crucial in keeping proper qi (vital life energy) and blood flow in your body.
2) Sitting:
Let’s face it, modern day life has most of us sitting more than ever in history. Whether we are at a computer, commuting, or just sitting for long periods of time, the mechanics of too much sitting can increase muscle stiffness and put pressure on the discs of the spine. Simple standing stretches or short walks to break up these routines can get your energy and blood moving again and prevent further stagnation in your lower back. And make sure you have a good ergonomic chair that supports your back.
3) Posture:
Even if you aren’t living a sedentary lifestyle, are standing, and moving more, you need to pay attention to your posture. For many of us, slouching is one of the hardest habits to break. It takes constant awareness to reset a hunched position to one with our shoulders back, chest lifted, and our center of gravity stabilized. It’s a worthwhile effort though as it opens up our breathing, delivers oxygen to our cells and allows for a rejuvenating flow of qi and blood.
4) Lifting Heavy Items:
We’ve all heard the expression: “Lift with the knees, not with the back,” but when in a rush many of us make the near fatal mistake of bending at the waist to lift a heavy item and end up putting tremendous pressure on your lower spine and back muscles. Remember to pause, get help when needed, or use tools if necessary. Slow down and practice martial artist-like awareness when your body needs to maneuver with strength and stability.
5) The Wrong Shoes:
If your feet hurt at the end of the day, you should take a look at your shoes. Are they really supporting your feet? Do they fit right? You may even want to consider orthopedic shoes depending on your foot shape and how much you are on your feet day to day. If your feet are not positioned right it can cause your hip and lower back to become misaligned.
Another reason this is important is because the kidney acupuncture channel begins at the bottom of the foot and travels up the legs. We need to make sure that energy in that channel is not impeded as it is a direct source of low back support.
6) Nutrition:
Bad nutritional habits that can directly affect our low backs include eating kidney depleting foods such as overly salted processed snacks and not drinking enough water. Overeating is another bad habit that can tax not just the kidney qi, but all organ systems and affect back muscles by pulling weight forward.
7) Not Seeking Therapy
When your back hurts your body is trying to tell you something. That message is “something is not right, and you need help!”
“Thank heavens for acupuncture Steven Sonmore style. I had excruciating terrible back pain. I honestly don’t know how it works, but I won’t argue with success. I am almost pain free and am confident that I’ll be rid of this rest of the pain soon. Thank you, Mr. Sonmore. You have given me my life back.*” Charles Krough, patient at Complete Oriental Medical Care
For assistance in alleviating your back pain relief and improving better overall health, get in for some re-balancing acupuncture treatments. Call 952-831-8080 or go to our contact page.
