Every year on 16 October, World Spine Day puts the spotlight on spinal health. Low back and neck pain are among the leading causes of disability worldwide, affecting people at work, at home and throughout everyday life.
But looking after your spine isn’t only about what you do when something hurts. It can also start with understanding how you move.
What Is Physical Literacy?
Physical literacy means having the knowledge, skills and confidence to move your body well in daily life, across your lifespan. Think of it a little like reading. The more familiar you become with movement, the easier it can be to make informed choices about it.
How Physically Literate Are You?
Ask yourself three quick questions:
- Do I recognise how my posture and movement habits affect how my back and neck feel?
- Do I make informed choices about exercise and my workspace setup?
- Do I feel comfortable and capable of moving regularly?
Hesitated on any of these? You’re in good company. Most of us were taught how to read, write and count at school, but not necessarily how to think about the way we move.
Start With a Microbreak Every Hour
Staying in one position for long periods can place extra load on your spine and the muscles around it. Microbreaks are short movement breaks of around 30 to 90 seconds.
The World Spine Day “Straighten Up” routine includes simple movements that can be performed at work or at home. Try Standing Tall, reaching gently upwards for 10-15 seconds; Twisting Star, gently rotating your torso from side to side; or Shake It Out, loosely shaking your limbs for about 15 seconds.
Stop if anything hurts, and ask a health professional if you’re unsure what movements are appropriate for you.
Physical literacy can be developed at any age, and adding a few short movement breaks to your day can be a simple place to start.”
Share World Spine Day With Someone You Love
Know someone who spends long days at a desk or behind the wheel? World Spine Day is a good opportunity to get them thinking about their own movement habits too.
Refer a friend or family member to Select Chiropractic for our $49 new patient special.
The $49 new patient special includes consultation, history review, comprehensive examination and testing on the first visit. A report of findings will be delivered on the second visit. Adjustment can be provided on the first visit if appropriate for an additional fee. Patients are advised of what is covered before the consultation begins. Offer available to new patients only.