Skeletons in All of Us

As we mature with time, our skeletons lose their strength naturally. Our skeletons are what hold our frames, often we experience aches and pains. No matter how much calcium we take, as time passes, the pressure that gravity puts on our bones shows no mercy. 

We can't fight the forces of nature, we can, however, take action in caring for our bones. We can save ourselves from injury by doing chores correctly.

Our knees are our largest joints in our bodies, it is then only right that we make sure that they are less prone to injuries. Trust me, our knees get most of the jerks, knocks and abrasions on a daily basis. Wear supportive footwear to lessen the impact on the knees. 

Sitting up straight is essential. Pick a butt rest that supports the curve of your lower back. If that isn't possible, fret not. Use a roll up towel and place it between your lower back and the back of the chair. Always sit with your spine lengthened and shoulders wide.

Always prepare yourself for a cough or sneeze. Sudden sneezes and coughs can cause jerks. Such sudden movements can jerk a weakened torso forwards and as a result, injure the spine. So, whenever, you feel a sneeze or a cough coming, bend your knees, set your back straight and put a hand on your thigh for support. Or brace your lower back with your hand to stay upright. Not easy to follow, this can be done with much practice. However, it will be worth the effort. 

Doing chores such as vacuuming, sweeping, mopping, can surely put a strain on your back. So it is important to bend your knees and hips and NOT your waist. Push and pull instead of twisting. Do you realise that we seldom bend our knees even when we walk? As a result, the impact is relatively large on our knees, causing more injuries and of course more aches.

When leaning down to load the washing machine or to make the bed, it will be wise not to sag from your waist, but instead bend your knees and hips while keeping your lower back straight.

Lastly, even I am sometimes guilty of this! I often simply bend my back and lift heavy objects from the ground. When lifting heavy objects from the ground, squat with back straightened and/or get someone to help. Lifting heavy objects can cause compression fracture as a great deal of pressure is put on the spine. So please be more mindful and spare your bones.