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New Year's Resolution on Repeat

With the New Year upon us, it reminds me that I need to keep one resolution I made a few years ago in the forefront.
I have had lower back troubles throughout my adult life. It plagued me whenever I would vacuum, lift something heavy or put my socks on. All of a sudden, I would feel the searing snap above my hips and my back would lock up. I was literally down for the count.
It’s just plain awful when a part of your body is out of commission. It wasn't bad enough that my lower back was in spasms—soon, the pain would radiate down my leg and cause this limb to shudder. For a period of two weeks, I had to completely modify my usual routine in order to heal. Even a simple task like getting a glass of water was a torturous ordeal.
It’s times like these when you really appreciate your family. My husband was terrific—he took over my domestic chores without a fuss. Also my son pitched in and was very concerned about me. When I would slightly adjust my position on the couch and groan in pain, he would cry out “For the love of God, Mom, don’t move!”
A few years ago, I decided I was too young to be in this ritual of pain, and my doctor prescribed physical therapy. The physical therapist was very patient and down to earth. She gave me regiment of therapeutic exercises to strengthen my core. After a couple of weeks, I started to notice a difference. After a session, when I got into my car, I had to adjust the rear view mirror because I was sitting taller in the driver’s seat. I hadn't realized that I had been slouching until now. Muscle memory was alive and kicking!

I am so happy I made that decision years ago. I have not thrown out my back since then. I’m listening to my body and carving out time to exercise, a simple, but powerful solution. It looks like perfect timing-- I now have a New Year’s resolution custom made.

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