Lifestyle Changes Enhance Healing from Back Injury

Healing from back pain and injury can be expedited through working with a skilled physical therapist or orthopedic physician. The practitioner will give each client specific stretches and strengthening exercises to do between sessions. In some cases, light aerobic exercises will be recommended.

However, in addition to physical therapy Connecticut and at-home exercises between sessions, it’s important that those healing from a back issue make some key lifestyle changes. Doing so can expedite tissue regeneration and help to prevent the same injuries from reoccurring in the future.

Reduce and Manage Stress Levels

Stress is often a major factor in back pain. Stress and anxiety are accompanied by shallow, constricted breathing as well a tightening and constricting of the muscles, including the ones surrounding the spine. Posture becomes poor, and the central nervous system responds by increasing heart rate and sending cortisol and adrenaline throughout the body.

Reducing and managing stress allows for more relaxation both physically and emotionally. Remembering to breathe deeply, getting therapeutic massage, meditating, spending time in nature, and scheduling regular breaks from work can all contribute to lowered stress and faster healing from back pain.

Physical therapy New Haven is the best way to re-train stressed, constricted muscles to relax from their protective mode and function normally. However, reducing stress is a lifestyle change that only the client can accomplish.

Proper Diet and Hydration

Extra weight and poor diet can hinder overcoming back pain. Eating nutritious, healthy foods and drinking plenty of fresh filtered water is essential for creating the basis for healing. Sugar- and carbohydrate-laden foods should be avoided; these include bread, pastries and sweets, pasta, white rice, and starchy foods like potatoes.

A balanced diet for healing should consist of plenty of lean protein to support soft tissue regeneration. Organic vegetables and fruits bring key vitamins, compounds and trace elements to facilitate healing. Control or avoid stimulants like nicotine and caffeine.

Get Adequate Sleep 

The body does much of its regeneration and healing while the client is sleeping, so getting at least seven hours per night is crucial to healing back injuries efficiently. Reducing stress and doing appropriate physical exercises during the day can contribute to being able to sleep deeply, soundly and restfully through the night.

Participating in rehabilitation, exercise and physical therapy in Connecticut is foundational to healing from back pain. However, key lifestyle changes made by the client can support healing and prevent recurrence.