Back pain may make performing normal daily activities very difficult. A good exercise program and good body mechanics and posture will help you keep a strong healthy back and minimize risk of back pain when performing your daily activities.
You should always consult your healthcare provider to find out the cause of your back pain and what activities are best for you.
ACTIVITIES OF DAILY LIVING
Activities of daily living may be defined as movements performed around the home or workplace on a regular basis. These movements include:
- Bathing and grooming
- Dressing
- Cooking and eating
- Cleaning
- Gardening
- Driving
- Walking
- Answering telephones
- Typing and filing
- Standing on an assembly line
As stated, you should use proper body mechanics and good posture to reduce the risk of injury to your back while performing these activities. Also, if you already have back pain, good body mechanics and posture may help minimize your pain and help to prevent further injury.
Once you have seen your healthcare provider to rule out serious causes, he or she will prescribe a treatment. This treatment will focus on symptom relief and activity recommendations. Usually, you will be encouraged to resume normal activity as soon as possible. Resuming normal activities will reduce the likelihood that you will develop long-term disability.
It is important to remain as active as you can and to maintain as much independence as possible, even when back pain is present.
Source: Prairie Spine and Pain Institute, Dr. Richard A. Kube II, MD.
