Back Pain After A Day In the Sun? Here’s How Your Chiropractor Can Help!
Back Pain After A Day In the Sun? Here’s How Your Chiropractor Can Help!
Spending a day basking in the sun can be a delightful experience, but it can sometimes lead to unexpected back pain. Whether it’s from prolonged standing, sitting in uncomfortable chairs, or engaging in physical activities like beach volleyball, back discomfort can dampen the afterglow of a sunny day out.
So, if you find yourself in this predicament, your chiropractor is here to offer effective solutions to alleviate your pain and enhance your overall spine health.
Understanding Back Pain
Back pain after a day in the sun can result from various factors, including dehydration, muscle fatigue, and even sunburn that tightens the skin and affects your posture. Activities like gardening, outdoor sports, or even lounging on unsupportive deck chairs can also strain your back muscles and spinal alignment.
One important tip we can provide right off the bat is not to go completely bedridden. Research shows this can actually worsen back pain and prolong it. In fact, research no longer supports bed rest for back pain.
How Your Chiropractor Can Help
Let’s get you back on your feet and back to the activities you know and love. Here are a few ways our your chiropractor can help!
A Comprehensive Evaluation
Your chiropractor will start with a thorough assessment to determine the root cause of your back pain. This evaluation may include a discussion about your recent activities, a physical examination, and possibly diagnostic imaging to get a clear picture of your spinal health.
Spinal Adjustments
One of the primary methods chiropractors use to relieve back pain is spinal manipulation or adjustment. This technique involves applying controlled force to specific parts of the spine to improve alignment, mobility, and nerve function. It can provide immediate relief from pain and stiffness caused by misalignments or subluxations in the spine.
Soft Tissue Therapy
After a day in the sun, your muscles may be tight, contributing to your back pain. Soft tissue therapies, such as massage or myofascial release, can help relax these muscles, increase blood flow to the area, and promote healing. These therapies can also alleviate the discomfort associated with sunburn by soothing the affected skin and tissues.
Hydration and Nutrition Advice
Dehydration can exacerbate back pain by contributing to muscle cramps and stiffness. Your chiropractor can provide advice on proper hydration and nutrition to support muscle and spinal health, especially after exposure to the sun. Increasing your intake of water and nutrient-rich foods can help your body recover more quickly and reduce inflammation.
Ergonomic and Lifestyle Recommendations
Prolonged periods of sitting or engaging in activities without proper support can lead to back pain. Your chiropractor can offer ergonomic recommendations to ensure your spine is supported during daily activities, whether you’re at work, driving, or relaxing at home. They can also provide tips for maintaining good posture and avoiding strain during outdoor activities.
Prevention Tips for Future Sun Outings
To prevent back pain on future sunny days, consider the following tips:
Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water before, during, and after your time in the sun.
Use supportive seating when lounging or sitting for extended periods.
Take regular breaks to stretch and move around if you’re engaging in prolonged activities.
Use proper lifting techniques (Your chiropractor can show you how!)
Apply sunscreen to prevent sunburn, which can tighten the skin and affect posture.