Back pain can result from a number of factors, from physical trauma, to degeneration of the body over time. But there are also seemingly harmless everyday habits that can lead to back pain. Here are three common habits that can lead to back pain, and how to turn those bad habits good.

Slouching

Your posture has a direct impact on your spine and any associated back pain. Certain conditions can prevent people from controlling their posture, but for most – a few simple habitual changes can improve posture and decrease the long-term risk of back pain. When standing, trying to keep your weight evenly distributed across both feet, rather than putting all your weight on one leg. Keep your back as straight as possible without straining yourself. When sitting, keep your back and legs at a 90 degree angle and keep your feet planted flat on the ground whenever possible.

Not Wearing Proper Footwear

The feet are the foundation of the body. If you don’t care for the foundation, the rest of your body will similarly deteriorate. Wearing improper footwear like shoes that are too tight, uncomfortable high heels can make you unconsciously change your gait and posture. This, in turn, can lead to back pain. The lesson here is to wear comfortable shoes that fit, supplementing with inserts where necessary.

Sleep Conditions

As humans, we need sleep to function properly. For large chunks of the day we sleep. The conditions in which we snooze can also play a part in your back pain. Your mattress is the first place to look. Old mattresses can lose their support over time. If you’ve had your mattress for 10 years or more, it may be time to get a new one. Another thing that can impact the cervical spine is the angle of your neck as it lays on a pillow. If you sleep with two pillows, this angle might be too severe and could lead to neck pain. Ideally you want a slight angle (don’t sleep with no pillow), but not too extreme.

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