How to……Prepare Your Spine for Spring Activities

19th April 2025 | Business, Health

Spring is the season of movement — gardening, cleaning, hiking, and tackling to-do lists that sat dormant all winter. But before you jump into action, take a moment to consider the foundation of all movement: your spine. After months of cold weather and limited activity, your body may not be ready for a sudden surge in physical tasks, especially now the nice weather seems to have arrived! Here’s how to prepare your spine for a healthier, pain-free Spring.

1. Start with Gentle Mobility

    Before you dive into gardening or long walks, ease your body into motion. Gentle stretching, especially of the hips, lower back, and shoulders, can help reduce stiffness and increase circulation. Try cat-cow stretches, gentle spinal twists, or even a brisk morning walk to reawaken your spine.

    2. Check Your Posture

    Winter often encourages slouching — curled up on the sofa, hunched over screens, or bracing against the cold. As you become more active, poor posture can lead to strains or misalignments. Take time to reset your posture: shoulders back, chest open, and ears in line with your shoulders. This alignment reduces stress on your spine and supports smoother movement.

      3. Warm Up Before Tasks

      Gardening and spring cleaning may not feel like workouts, but your spine doesn’t know the difference. Bending, twisting, lifting — it all adds up. Do a short warm-up before any physical activity: shoulder/arm circles, hip/leg swings, or a few bodyweight squats can activate your muscles and protect your back.

      4. Use Proper Body Mechanics

      Lift with your legs, not your back. Keep items close to your body and avoid twisting while carrying weight. If you’re kneeling in the garden or reaching overhead, take breaks and switch sides frequently to stay balanced.

      5. Already in pain? Seek Chiropractic treatment

      If you are already suffering with any joint or muscle pain, it is best to get it checked out before undergoing more strenuous activity. Chiropractic treatment helps to correct spinal and joint dysfunction, improves mobility, and supports your nervous system — all essential for staying active and pain-free. Regular care keeps your spine functioning at its best, especially as you increase your activity levels.

      6. Listen to Your Body

      Some post-activity soreness is normal, but sharp pain, stiffness, or recurring discomfort is a sign your spine needs attention. Don’t push through pain — early care prevents bigger problems down the road. And remember, all readers of the Chronicle get 20% discount off the first appointment (with my advert in this edition).

      Your spine is your springboard — treat it with care, and it will support all your seasonal goals.

      Dr Tracy Dixon

      For Further Information

      Talako Therapies – Tel:07870645076

      tracy@talako.co.uk

      Dr Tracy Dixon Talako Therapies – Tel:07870645076 tracy@talako.co.uk

      https://www.chiropractorinmarketharborough.co.uk/

      Also ‘Introducing Talako Therapies’, Kibworth Chronicle, 25th May 2024