Can Trigger Spinal Pain! Fashionable things attract more than a second glance.

Most people are careful when they lift or shift heavy loads.Unfortunately,the smaller loads can be just a troublesome and the result is needing Chiropractic care.

Briefcases,shoulder bags and backpacks can all cause health problems,especially when loaded up.Not surprising when it has been estimated that carrying as little as 10% of your body weight can upset your postural alignment.

Carrying a weight on one-side changes the natural rhythm of your upper and lower body.The unloaded side often tightens to counter the weight.

This Causes a spinal curvature and the smooth coordinated swinging of your arms and legs is replaced by a gait that is more awkward and rigid Muscles become tense while other parts of the spine lose their normal free movement.

Once you add a few items,even thin-strapped shoulder bags may cause injuries.The thin strap may cut into the neck and shoulder muscles causing pain,tenderness and tightness.Even smaller handbags,purses and wallets can cause postural mischief.Having to hold ATM cards,coins and personal identification have made these carry-alls evolve to become thicker.

Problems begin to arise when you want to keep your hands free-often the now bulky wallet ends up in the back pocket.Sitting down will then press the wallet into one of the buttock muscles.The person becomes propped up on one cheek and their spine curves,causing uneven muscle tension.

Prolonged pressure against the buttock may cause pain,tightness and even bruising.Hard pressure through the muscle can also irritate the sciatic nerve:you can end up with a sore bottom as well as a nagging ache and numbness that travel down your leg!

Tips to save your spine:

Empty any unnecessary items from your bag or wallet;

Place the wallet and mobile phone in the front pockets of the bag-saves you having to stretch;

select a briefcase or purse with a wide adjustable strap-long enough to place it over your head-to evenly distribute the load across the body;

Swap the carry side frequently;

Don’t sit or drive with a wallet in your back pocket.

Followers of fashion tend to be more concerned with the way something looks rather than the way it feels.That may be OK for a while,but it is generally wiser to listen to your body and perhaps ask your chiropractor for advice.After all is’s hard to be stylish when you’re wincing with pain!