Holiday Guide to Back Care

Parties. Gift shopping. Family gatherings. Curling up to watch a favorite movie on the couch…. The holiday season is full of reasons for good cheer. And yet, according to the American Physical Therapy Association, it is also prime time for Americans to suffer from back and neck pain.

For one thing, the stress associated with extra obligations during the holidays can increase muscle tension, aggravating any existing condition. But there are also a number of common seasonal activities— such as entertaining, shopping, and wrapping gifts— that can lead directly to back and neck pain. Here are a few tips from the American Chiropractic Association to help you stay pain free this holiday season.

At home:

  • Sit in a firm but comfortable chair, and pay attention to posture while entertaining friends and family or watching television. Spending hours on too-soft sofas in poor posture can cause imbalances along the spine.
  • Don’t cook, clean, and talk on the phone all at once— unless you have a headset. Cradling the phone between your ear and shoulder can lead to muscle tension and neck pain.

While shopping:

  • Make yourself comfortable. Prevent unnecessary body tension by wearing supportive shoes and non-restrictive clothing.
  • Leave your overstuffed purse at home. Instead, wear a fanny pack or take a small wallet containing only the essentials— credit card, driver’s license, and your gift list of course.
  • Don’t try to carry too much at once. Make frequent visits to your car to unload bags, if necessary. For larger items, don’t be shy— ask your sales clerk for help!
  • Remember, shopping can be an endurance sport, so treat yourself right after a long day of shopping. Stretch your muscles and take a hot shower or bath to release tension that may have accumulated during the day.

Wrapping gifts:

  • Wrap presents at a table. While spreading out on the floor may be fun and convenient, it encourages poor posture and tension.

Sticking to a routine of physical activity, getting adequate rest, and eating well will also help relieve stress and tension during the holidays. Above all, relax! It’s one of the best things you can do for yourself, your family, and your back. And if you do experience neck or back pain, be sure to fit an appointment with your doctor of chiropractic into your busy schedule.

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Monday:

7:00 am - 1:00 pm

3:00 pm - 6:30 pm

Tuesday:

3:00 pm - 6:30 pm

Wednesday:

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3:00 pm - 6:30 pm

Thursday:

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Friday:

10:00 am - 1:00 pm

Saturday:

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Sunday:

Closed

Testimonials

Reviews By Our Satisfied Patients

  • "I went to Drs Glen Katz and Martin when they first opened their offices. They are highly gifted chiropractors and superior clinicians. Not only did they help (eliminate) my neck pain of 10 years...but they helped me through a leg injury. Chiropractic even helped my digestion issues and depression. They are caring, wonderful practitioners as well."
    By Elisabeth
  • "These are two of the most amazing chiropractors! They are also very good guys. I highly recommend them."
    by Spiritjrm
  • "I have been a patient at Speed Well Chiropractic for many years. The doctors really helped me get through my pregnancy pain free. They are really easy to talk to and will listen to you when you have a problem, unlike other doctors these days. Everything is so simple and relaxed at the office from finances to appointments. They are the BEST Chiropractors Ever!!!"
    By-P.S.