Holiday Activities Can Strain Backs, Experts Warn

The holiday season often leads to increased physical strain on the back due to deviations from normal routines, according to orthopedic expert Dr. Said Darawsheh. Activities like prolonged standing in the kitchen, lifting heavy pots, moving furniture, carrying shopping bags, and extended periods of sitting during holiday meals can all contribute to back pain.

Dr. Darawsheh explains that back pain during holidays is typically not caused by a single event but by the cumulative effect of unusual and prolonged activities. He advises caution when lifting objects, recommending people get close to the item, use leg strength, and avoid twisting the back. Similarly, long car journeys can be taxing, as the back is not designed for prolonged static positions. He suggests taking breaks during travel to move around.

Even during periods of rest, such as sitting after a meal, extended inactivity can be detrimental. Dr. Darawsheh recommends getting up periodically to move and change positions, even during relaxed holiday evenings. He stresses that rest is important, but prolonged immobility should be avoided.

If back pain does occur, Dr. Darawsheh advises against complete immobility. While avoiding activities that worsen the pain is crucial, moderate movement is often beneficial for non-specific back pain. However, he notes that severe or persistent pain, worsening symptoms, weakness, significant numbness, or pain radiating down the leg warrant medical attention. The goal, he concludes, is to be mindful of cumulative stress and maintain movement throughout the holidays, rather than fearing activity.