In between your visits to our office, there are a lot of things you can do to keep your body, especially your back, healthy. If this sounds familiar-well, we've been talking to your mother.  It just so happens she was right.

1. Sit up straight.
   Develop the habit of good posture; it makes a world of difference in the way your back feels.
   
2. Eat your fruits and vegetables.
   A good diet is important to your overall health.  All of those nutrients help your body repair itself.
   
3. Turn off the TV and exercise.
   Get up and move. Go for a walk. Add exercise to your regular routine.  When you have to sit for long periods, stretch regularly.   Active people are healthier, smarter and happier.
   
4. Put that down. 
   Don't lift things that are too heavy for you. If you have to, you know what they say-lift with your legs, not your back.  Don't carry around a backpack stuffed full of books, especially not on one shoulder, or a heavy bag if you can avoid it. The key is to minimize - only take what you really need.
   
5. Go to sleep.
   Sleep is essential for your wellbeing. Don't sleep on your stomach, which can strain the muscles in your neck and back. Practice sleeping on your side or back.
   
6. Drink more water.  
   The rule of thumb is to cut your weight in half and that is how many ounces of water per day you should drink.
   
7. Keep the weight off.  
   Those extra pounds are hard on your spine and your organs.