Some Advice On Your Aching Back
Sitting:
1. Sit in chairs low enough to place both feet on the floor, avoid bar stool type chairs.
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Sit firmly against the back of the chair.
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Use a footstool when sitting so that your knees are raised higher then your hips.
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Sit in firm chairs.
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Sit in a four-legged chair, either a swivel chair or rolling chair are acceptable. The exception is a rocking chair, it often relieves discomfort.
Driving:
1. Move your car seat forward so your knees are bent.
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If your car seat is exceptionally soft, use a firm pillow or mat on your seat.
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Always wear seat belts.
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Sit up straight.
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Only drive short distances, then get out and walk.
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Try to stay out of very low cars.
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Start and stop gradually.
Standing and Walking:
1. Only stand and walk for a short period of time, then change position and sit if possible.
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When standing, have a footstool to rest one foot on.
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Always be posture cautious, avoid slumping or leaning.
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When walking, be cautious of curb heights and potholes.
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If you are given an assistive device, (a cane, walker or crutches). Use it.
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If you must stand for a long period of time, bend the knees.
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Always wear comfortable footwear, avoid high heels.
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When turning always move the feet first.
Resting:
1. When lying on your back, place pillow under your knees.
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Avoid lying on your stomach.
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Sleep or rest on a firm mattress or couch.
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Try lying on your side either with or without a pillow between your bent knees.
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Use a bed board, (usually ½” or 5/8” thick piece of plywood will do) to be placed between the springs and the mattress.
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When arising from bed, turn on your side and allow your feet to lead off the bed.
Lifting:
1. Know your limitations.
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Get close to anything being lifted.
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Use smooth, steady movements.
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Get a secure grip.
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Keep elbows close to your side.
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Bend your knees.
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Keep your back straight.
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Flatten your back when lifting.
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Wear comfortable footwear.
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Get a sturdy base (approximately 6-10” between heels.)
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Get help when needed.
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Only lift between hips.
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Avoid twisting or turning when lifting.
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Get a stool if anything is above your raised elbows.
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Always push a weight, avoid pulling.
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Only lift what can be easily accomplished.
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Avoid repeating lifting.
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Avoid lifting weights that might shift.
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Avoid reaching in the back of the trunk for grocery packages.
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Ask for help when you are unsure.
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If two are lifting, be sure both begin and end at the same time.
House Work:
1. Sweep or wash floors for short periods only.
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Dress warmly.
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Avoid air conditioning ducts.
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Weekend exercise is to be avoided, better do some each day.
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When working in the garden, always warm up first by doing some gentle stretching and squatting.
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When pulling weeds or planting in the garden, always observe lifting advice.
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Keep needed materials within easy reach when cooking or cleaning.
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Do all activities advised by your doctor.
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