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 usually not caused by a single incident but by the cumulative effect of unusual and prolonged activities concentrated over a short period. He advises caution when lifting objects, recommending people get close to the item, use leg strength, and avoid twisting the back. Simple adjustments like changing positions frequently while cooking or asking for help with heavy items can mitigate this strain.

Long car journeys during holidays also pose a risk, as the back is not designed for prolonged static positions. Dr. Darawsheh suggests taking breaks during travel to walk around and move the body. Similarly, extended periods of sitting after meals, even when resting, can be detrimental. He recommends getting up periodically to move and change posture.

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