Getting older don't you think is time to take care of your back

 
1: Don't Slouch
Slouching is one of the easiest ways to damage your back. In fact, little things like leaning forward for a prolonged amount of time or stooping over a sink to brush your teeth may increase pressure on your back by up to 50 per cent.

The natural position of your back is straight and upright, so try your hardest to keep it that way. Good posture means that your head, shoulders, hips and feet are all aligned in a straight line, so make an effort to keep your back straight whenever possible.

2: Stay Active
You may be tempted to stay in bed when your back is hurting, but studies show that activity is a better choice. Even a 20-minute stroll around the neighbourhood is enough to unlock your muscles and improve your circulation, and it also helps tone your shoulders, arms and back.

3: Use a Back Brace
Do you spend most of your day in front of a computer screen? If so, you've probably found yourself leaning forward a bit too often. Back braces are excellent tools for relieving short-term backaches, but experts caution against wearing them for longer than 15-30 minutes at a time. You want your abdomen (core) to be strong and supple, not dependent on an outside source.

4: Buy an Extra Pillow
If you sleep on your back, you may improve circulation to your torso by placing a pillow under your knees. If you sleep on your side, put the pillow between your thighs. These measures may help keep your blood flowing and alleviate pain while you rest.

5: Apply Heat
If you are concerned about an onset of pain, you don't have to wait to pull out that heating pad! If you apply heat before the backache starts, you may help prevent it from ever darkening your doorstep at all. Apply heat for 15-20 minute intervals as often as you can throughout the day to keep your muscles loose and your circulation flowing.

6: Meditate
You don't need to be a guru to benefit from the healing effects of meditation. Just sit quietly and focus on nothing but your breathing for a few minutes a day. The relaxed feeling that flows over you may help prevent your joints from stiffening and your back from seizing up.

These are just a few ways that may help take some of the pressure off a bad back. A healthy back that maintains flexibility is increasingly important. It helps improve one's balance and mobility, and could possibly prevent the need for surgery and extended recovery later in life.

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