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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