What a Pain in the Back!

What a Pain in the Back!Odds are that you or someone you know has suffered from back pain in the past year. Low back pain, in particular, is very common affecting four out of five people at least once in their lifetime1,2. A recent survey revealed that, in Canada, back pain continues to be the most common health complaint of

Four Back-saving Tips for the Office

Four Back-saving Tips for the OfficeGiven the number of hours in a work week spent sitting, including commuting time, it’s not surprising that many office workers suffer from at least one musculoskeletal (MSK) condition. Common workplace injuries include tendonitis/osis, carpal tunnel syndrome, back and neck pain, as well as neck/shoulder stiffness and circulatory problems. Pain and discomfort can be caused

Five Back-saving Tips for Spring Cleaning

Five Back-saving Tips for Spring CleaningHave you ever stared down your list of household chores and wish you had a magic wand? Not very many people seem to like cleaning the house; however, it is one of life’s necessities. The mundane nature of chores aside, some household activities require a great deal of bending, reaching and twisting that may increase

Six Back-saving Tips for New Parents

Six Back-saving Tips for New ParentsBecoming a parent brings joy like no other, but it also brings a host of new challenges that test the most patient and nurturing among us. It’s no secret that childbirth and the general sleep deprivation that typically accompanies caring for a baby have a profound impact on the body. In fact, musculoskeletal (MSK) complaints

Seven Ways to Plan Ahead in the Garden and Reduce the Risk of Pain

Seven Ways to Plan Ahead in the Garden and Reduce the Risk of PainNow that spring is here, many people are anxious to get out into their gardens. Last week, we gave you some tips on pacing yourself while planting. However, if you are injured and unable to attend to the beds due to chronic conditions such as arthritis, it can be heartbreaking to watch the vegetable patch

Seven Back-saving Tips for Gardeners

Seven Back-saving Tips for GardenersWarmer temperatures and sunny days have finally arrived and so have the first flowers of spring! This might entice you to do a bit of gardening. Understandably, most gardeners are anxious to plunge their hands into the dirt and get growing. Gardening can be an extremely rewarding pastime, but it can also come with an

Five Ways to Reduce Low Back Pain While Cycling

Five Ways to Reduce Low Back Pain While CyclingCycling competitively, to work or just for the enjoyment of it is an excellent way to keep in shape and enjoy the outdoors, but it’s no fun at all if your back hurts. Back pain or discomfort while riding a bicycle can result from various factors, such as poor riding posture, a poorly fit bicycle,

Behind the Wheel: Posture Check!

Behind the Wheel: Posture Check!Last week, we discussed the stresses that driving can place on the musculoskeletal system. In fact, studies have been conducted, particularly with bus and truck drivers, that show a higher risk of developing MSK conditions associated with these occupations. Vehicle vibrations, bumpy roads and sitting in a constrained position with improper lumbar support may contribute

Five Back Saving Tips for Drivers

Five Back Saving Tips for DriversMusculoskeletal (MSK) conditions are prevalent among habitual drivers. Whether you work in your vehicle or commute to work through rush-hour traffic, you may have experienced some level of back or neck pain. In fact, studies have shown a high incidence of work-related musculoskeletal injuries among people who drive for a living, and, according to the

The Synergy of Movement and Posture

The Synergy of Movement and PostureThe body is a complex myriad of structures and systems that work synergistically to allow function and movement, and ultimately allows us to do the activities that we love. Everything in our bodies is interconnected – including the musculoskeletal (MSK) and related neurological systems that are comprised of bones, muscles, joints, nerves, and connective tissue.