Get ‘Active and Adaptive’ and Prevent Musculoskeletal Aches and Pains from the ACA
After sheltering in place earlier this year, many people are still practicing lifestyle changes to reduce their potential exposure to COVID-19: Avoiding crowded public spaces, working from home, forgoing air travel for car trips, ordering food and supplies online, and avoiding gyms and health clubs. Because of this new normal, many are moving less, and some are experiencing increased musculoskeletal (MSK) pain.
Doctors of chiropractic (DC) report seeing increased MSK conditions such as back pain, neck pain, and headaches since the beginning of the pandemic. When members of the American Chiropractic Association (ACA) were asked what they believe is contributing most to these conditions, they cited lack of movement, psychological stress, and poor posture as key factors.
This October during National Chiropractic Health Month (NCHM), chiropractors nationwide encourage people to prevent or alleviate musculoskeletal issues by being “active and adaptive” in their altered lifestyles and routines. That means paying extra attention to getting enough movement during the day, being aware of posture and ways to improve it, getting adequate rest, and managing stress in healthy ways.
To that end, I’ll be sharing information and articles this month on ways to we can adapt in a positive way to the changes in our environment, physical and mental health, travel, and exercise. I hope that you will incorporate some of these changes into your daily lives.
Stay safe and be well.