In the last issue of this newsletter, we ran an article on preventing back pain. How well are you doing at protecting your back? This article can help you check your progress.
Know Thyself
How much have you learned about how to protect your back and reduce pain and strain? Check off the statements that are true for you:
I know my risk factors for back pain.
I have chosen at least one risk factor, such as being overweight or not maintaining proper posture, to try and change.
I know that one of the best ways to treat most types of back pain is by getting up and moving as soon as possible.
I know the symptoms of serious back pain, such as severe pain and fever, which mean I should call my doctor right away.
If you can check off at least one of these statements, you’ve taken a
positive step toward protecting your back. What can you do next to set new goals?
Skill Set
How many of the following skills have you developed that will help you have a strong, healthy back?
If you’ve learned and practiced at least one of the skills above—good for you! If not, don’t give up. No matter what point you’re starting from, set a goal for yourself—choose one of the skills above to work on next month.
Pat Yourself on the Back
It is always helpful to give yourself an incentive to change. It’s also helpful to recognize when you are doing a good job at taking care of yourself. One way to do this is by paying attention to how your new habits are improving your health. If you’ve started to practice back-friendly skills, take a moment to notice how much better your back feels. If you haven’t taken action yet, plan a reward to help motivate yourself to take action. Keep it up—your good health is worth it!
(c) 2001 Premier Medical Insurance Group, Inc., and its subsidiary, Dean Health Plan, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction with attribution permitted.
In the last issue of this newsletter, we ran an article on preventing back pain. How well are you doing at protecting your back? This article can help you check your progress.