Sitting

Do avoid sitting for long periods of time; take lots of breaks to stand and stretch backwards to counteract the curve of your lower back — your chiropractor in Silver Spring, MD, acn give you some exercises to use 

Do sit back in your chair to give your back the support it needs

Do keep your feet flat on the floor

Don’t lean forward with your back arched

Don’t sit in a chair that’s too big, too low or too high

Don’t slouch in your chair

Standing

Do shift your weight from time to time and, if possible, rest one foot on a stool to relieve strain in your lower back

Do keep your head in a neutral position on your neck, looking straight ahead — if you’re not sure what a neutral position feels like, your Ameriwell chiropractor in Silver Spring, MD, can help

Do stand squarely if you can’t use a low stool, with your weight distributed evenly on both feet

Don’t stay in one place too long

Don’t bend forward with your legs straight 

Don’t wear high heels, as they put stress on your back

Driving

Do elevate the headrest until it’s right behind your head — this can help prevent major injuries in case of a car accident

Do sit up straight with your back against the seat — if your seat doesn’t have enough lumbar support, ask your chiropractor what you should do to get lumbar support

Do keep both hands on the steering wheel

Don’t sit so far back that you have to reach for the steering wheel or pedals

Lifting

Do squat down to life, making sure to keep your back straight

Do hold the object close to your body

Do lift with your legs, keeping your back straight, moving slowly and carefully

Don’t try to lift with your arms outstretched

Don’t try to lift something that’s too heavy or awkward

Don’t bend over to pick something up — your Ameriwell chiropractor in Silver Spring, MD may tell you all the ways this can injure your back

Sleeping

Do sleep curled up on your side with a pillow between your knees to relieve any pressure on your lower back — your chiropractor in Silver Spring, MD can make appropriate pillow suggestions both for your head and between your knees

Do put a pillow under your knees if you sleep on your back

Do get out of bed by rolling onto your side, then sitting up sideways 

Don’t sleep on a mattress that’s too soft, as it will offer little back support

Don’t sleep on your stomach — is strains your lower back