Back pain episodes can be crippling.  Our lives are so dependent on our healthy backs and yet we tend to neglect them until we have a problem.   Fortunately there are many actions we can take to lower the possibility of experiencing disabling back pain.

What can we do to keep our backs fit and healthy? What can we do to reduce the risks of developing back problems? How can we reduce the negative impacts of back pain in our lives? Attention to posture, physical activity, manual handling and good back care can be empowering tools for the individual.

Somebody,  somewhere in your past has told you "sit up straight".  A return to good posture is a positive beginning.  This takes into account the proper alignment and functioning of all the back structures: muscles, tendons, vertebrae and ligaments. Here are a few tips:

  1. Start at the bottom. If you have to be seated for an extended period, make sure that you are providing a sufficient base for your back to remain in its proper form. Feet flat on the floor and seat and thighs providing solid contact are ideal. This posture can be enhanced by the use of an ergonomic assistance such as EmbraceAir’s In-line Seating. Its use can significantly improve the comfort of many chairs and seats by cradling the buttocks and evenly distributing the body weight. Further, In-Line Seating stabilizes the depth that you sink into the seat providing a firm base helping you to sit tall.
     
  2. Ensure that your back is fully and dynamically supported when seated especially if seated for a long period of time (over 20 minutes).  This is  of particular importance for drivers. For basic lumbar support and positive seated back structure, try the  EmbraceAIRPlusEmbraceAIR KIng ( for larger taller),  the LumbAIRPlus for bucket seats.  In-Line Seating can be added to any of these products for further comfort and support.
     
  3. A sleeping posture that maintains the alignment of the head and neck with the spine prevents strain. Consider the Solitude Water Pillow for head and neck sleep support that contours to your position and movement.