Our exercise tip – Back conditions and exercise
Three conditions that are common in the population and relate to our back are Scoliosis (an excessive s or c shape to the spine), Kyphosis (an accentuated hunch in the upper back) and Lordosis (an excessive deep curve in the lower back). All these conditions can vary from mild to severe, with all of them affecting nerve function, movements of the body and chronic pain levels in the body.
The first step to helping rectify these with exercise is to have an allied health professional (a physiotherapist or back specialist) assess the severity. From this assessment you should be armed with the right information to at least get you started on a plan to either help treat and stop the progression of, or even rectify the issue.
Exercises to stay away from are things like sit-ups, exercises that twist the spine while the lower body is stable, exercises where the weight is above shoulder height or you have a bar on your shoulders. Most of these conditions will improve with stretching that addresses the tight muscles on one side pulling the back into that shape and strengthening the muscles that have become elongated and looser.
If you are local to Lismore and need some help with one of these back conditions, go and see Gabby and the team at Goonellabah Physiotherapy Centre. They are excellent at what they do.
Your health tip – Being healthy is not just about physical health
According to an Australian Bureau of Statistics research paper from 2007, 45% of Australians aged between 16 and 85 experienced some level of mental illness. The annual cost of this is estimated to be 20 billion dollars per annum.
When winter sets in and the sky is not so blue, it is a common thought that these conditions influence our mental health levels. Looking after yourself during these grey months is a must. Exercising regularly, eating well and reducing alcohol consumption are all changes that can help you in these tougher times.
If you know any one that needs help or if you just need to talk to someone, try these organisations:
Lifeline 131114
Beyond Blue 1300 22 46 36
Winter chill tip – Have your alternate weather exercise option planned
Having that alternate option available through this winter can make the difference between ending winter with or without a ‘winter coat’. If you have a run or walk planned but conditions are not good, having a little circuit option or a space to skip are great alternatives. Even if you plan for the week has runs and walks all week but you have to use the alternate option, it is better than not exercising at all.
Your life tips
Try not to dwell on past issues and bring them into the present. Seek help if need be, talk to a friend, and do your best to get past them or your future will not change.
This week’s wise words
Thinking ‘here goes nothing’ could be the start of everything.
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Have a great week and keep healthy in 2018. David.