August, 2001
Dear Friends:
Here are some commonsense tips that may help you avoid the pain and discomfort of back pain.
First, watch where you place your wallet. If you spend most of your day sitting on a bulky wallet, it can play havoc with a sciatic problem. Keep your wallet in a side pocket, shoulder bag or in your jacket.
Next, make sure that you use a laundry cart when carrying your laundry from one place to another. Don't try to carry it in your arms.
When shopping, divide your groceries into two shopping bags, preferably bags with handles. Distribute the weight evenly. Avoid using cartons. Don't hold shopping bags against your chest or balance them on your hips. And don't try to use a briefcase when carrying a heavy load. A back pack will work a lot better for you.
Women should try switching to lighter-weight purses or shoulder bags. Shift your purse from shoulder to shoulder to avoid muscle imbalance and see if you can carry fewer objects to lighten your load.
'Nuf said,
Larry Herman, DC
Shanon Holcomb, DC
Jim McDermott, DC
Steve Waters, DC