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The Road to Good Back Health

5 Tips to Get You Started

By Jennifer Lacey

Maintaining a healthy weight can play a tremendous part in the success of maintaining back health. "Having a diet that is well balanced and healthy, along with good weight control, is very important," agrees Hannon.

Statistics have shown that excessive pounds may put a strain on your spine and may also play a role in straining and weakening the abdomen muscles. The intake of a healthy, well balanced diet that contains plenty of servings of fresh vegetables and fruits may provide the proper vitamins, minerals and nutrients required to assist in making a woman's back feel stronger and less susceptible to injury and pain.

Starting any form of a daily exercise routine is essential for maintaining not only one's mental and physical health, but one's back as well. "Postural exercises will help to maintain good strength throughout the lifespan," says Hannon.

Yoga is an ancient practice that began in India more than 4,000 years ago and has become an increasingly popular form of exercise in the United States throughout recent years. Yoga consists mostly of a combination of different forms of exercise as well as meditation, and it assists in promoting health and the prevention of disease. "Yoga promotes flexibility through stretching, and in general, these two forms of exercise are fine for women with no history of back pain or back problems," says Hannon. However, she advises that for these particular women, they should check with a physical therapist who can then, "evaluate and make recommendations about which movements, directions, postures and poses to avoid and which ones that may be beneficial."

If attempting the stretching exercises that Yoga offers is just not your style, then look at taking a walk. Treat yourself to a pair of good, supportive walking shoes and start stepping. This is a wonderful activity that you can enjoy with your spouse or partner and family. It will not only help improve the muscles on your lower body, but will assist in maintaining good cardiovascular health.