West Palm Beach, FL (PRWEB) December 24, 2015 -- For millions of people, the holiday season is also their stressed-out season – which can put them on the road to lingering back pain now, and for the year ahead. To help avoid this common scenario from unfolding, top minimally invasive spine surgeon Dr. Michael A. Gleiber, MD, FAAOS has published a new article highlighting 6 ways to avoid back pain from holiday stress.
“Stress isn’t just a proverbial pain in the neck – it’s also a very real pain in the back,” commented Dr. Gleiber, who is a spokesperson for the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, and exclusively focuses his West Palm Beach-based practice on treating injuries and diseases of the cervical, thoracic and lumbar spine. “While there is no way to completely eliminate or avoid holiday-related stress, there are simple, proven and proactive ways to mitigate and manage it.”
According to Dr. Gleiber, people should keep the following tips in mind during and after the holidays:
- Plan ahead and avoid last-minute logistics. Smart time management is part of managing stress. With this being said, don’t over-schedule activities and tasks so there’s no flexibility. Plans will change based on many factors, including positive ones. It’s also important to schedule in time to relax, unwind, refresh and restore.
- If possible, avoid heading to the mall on Christmas Eve – not just because of the endless line-ups, but the parking lot can be a nightmare. Buy something online or send an e-gift card. Many people who leave shopping to the last minute feel rushed and anxious, which can lead to panic attacks, high blood pressure, a weakened immune system, back pain, and other conditions.
- Break larger activities – such as hosting a holiday party -- into smaller tasks, so that they’re easier and less stressful to manage. This also makes it simpler to pause an activity mid-way, and resume later on or the following day.
- Take time to rest and relax. Excess tension and a lack of sleep can trigger both stress and back pain. Getting a massage can do wonders, and be the smartest and best gift that people give themselves.
- Eat healthy and stay hydrated – especially since the holidays are typically full of feasts that include over-processed foods loaded with sugar, salt, additives and other recipes for added stress; not to mention weight gain. Drinking enough water is also essential, as dehydration damages the structures in the back, resulting in stiffness and soreness.
- Consider yoga to strengthen the core, and promote both spine health and relaxation. For those who aren’t interested in yoga, go for a walk or a light jog (provided that it is medically safe to do so).
Added Dr. Gleiber: “While the holiday season is often stressful, there is no need for it to damage health and trigger back pain. These simple and practical tips will do wonders now, and throughout the year.”
The full text of article entitled “6 Ways to Avoid Back Pain from Holiday Stress” is available on Dr. Gleiber’s website at http://michaelgleibermd.com/news/6-ways-avoid-back-pain-holiday-stress
Additional articles by Dr. Gleiber on spine health, pain relief, effective exercising and more are available at http://michaelgleibermd.com, or by following Dr. Gleiber on Facebook and Twitter.
Media Relations, Michael A Gleiber MD PA, http://michaelgleibermd.com, +1 (561) 972-6464, [email protected]
SOURCE Michael A Gleiber MD PA
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