Health

Back Pain Solutions

By Karen J. Bannan, Parenting
 
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Ease that aching back with these quick tips - Parenting.com

The most natural mom movements you make every day can stress your neck, shoulders, and back. Here, the most common wrong moves moms make  -- and how to make them right, from exercise physiologist Tommy Boone, Ph.D., of the College of St. Scholastica, in Duluth, Minnesota:

Holding your child's hand Hunching over has its consequences. Leaning to one side and tipping slightly forward can cause chronic neck and lower-back pain. The more you're forced to bend at the waist, the greater the strain.
Solution: Switch hands often, moving your child from your left to your right when you sense any strain or discomfort.

Carrying a heavy diaper bag You've stuffed a sippy cup, snacks, toys, clothes, and who knows what else in your bag. But when one shoulder's weighed down by the burden, you're placing added tension on your neck, shoulders, and lower back. You could also cause your spine to curve over time.
Solution: Lighten your load by traveling only with the essentials. And consider switching to a backpack-style diaper bag, which will distribute the weight you're carrying more evenly.

Toting your child Most moms favor one hip over the other when carrying their baby. But if you're constantly holding your child on your right side, your spine can curve to the left, and vice versa (don't worry, it's not permanent). Temporary muscle weakness and pain in your lower back can also occur.
Solution: When toting a baby, alternate hips when you get uncomfortable and try using a sling, stroller, or backpack more often. Hauling a preschooler? Pay attention to your form when you pick him up: Bend your knees so you lift him with your legs, not your back.



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