Dr Adriaan Liebenberg My Spine Explained | Page 58

CHAPTER 11
CARING FOR YOUR BACK
People with spinal pathology usually have a genetic tendency or susceptibil-
ity towards spinal disease. The spinal column is one organ and people who
have lower back problems frequently will develop, or at the same time have,
neck problems. Spinal surgery should be reserved for nerve compression and
intractable pain that impairs a patient’s everyday life and functionality sub-
stantially. Spinal surgery changes the biomechanics of the spine and frequent-
ly leads to further spinal surgery. The mainstay in the treatment of back pain
therefore is prevention. This chapter aims to explain how to go about putting
as little strain on your spine as possible.
Precautions
Sleeping:
Do not sleep on your stomach. It is better to lie on your side with a pillow
between your knees, preferably on your better side. You may also lie on your
back with pillows under your knees. Make sure that your mattress provides
proper support.
Rolling in bed:
When you roll to your right, bend your left knee and keep your right leg
straight. Press with your left hand against your left knee. Push away with your
left leg to roll. It is important to remember that when you roll from your back
to your side, your shoulder and hip must move together (log rolling).
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