Protect Your Spine During These Oklahoma City Activities

Oklahoma City is packed with exciting activities and there’s no shortage of thrilling outdoor adventures and everyday tasks that keep us busy. As a chiropractor, I've seen many cases of unexpected back pain from these fun activities. Whether you're navigating rapids, cycling scenic trails, or lifting heavy items at home, it’s important to protect your back. Let’s look at seven fun activities in OKC that might just send you seeking some chiropractic care and how you can enjoy them safely.

Whitewater Rafting at Riversport OKC

Oklahoma City’s Riversport Adventures offers thrilling whitewater rafting. Whitewater rafting is exhilarating but riding the rapids can be tough on your back, especially if you're not prepared for the jolts and turns. Here are my tips to prevent back pain while whitewater rafting in Oklahoma City:

• Using proper paddling form.

• Stretching before hitting the water with torso twists and shoulder rolls.

• Wearing a supportive life jacket to help maintain good posture.

• Taking a quick lesson on paddling techniques to prevent back strain.

Rock Climbing at The Silos

The Silos in Oklahoma City offer an exciting vertical challenge. Climbing can strain your back and neck if you're not using the right techniques or gear. To avoid back pain while rock climbing follow these tips:

• Warming up properly with stretches like cat-cow (arching and rounding your back) and neck tilts.

• Wearing a properly sized harness that fits well.

• Using proper climbing techniques.

• Taking lessons from experienced climbers to maintain good form.

Biking on the Oklahoma River Trails

The scenic trails along the Oklahoma River are a favorite for local cyclists. But long rides with poor posture or a poorly sized bike can lead to back pain. To stay pain-free while biking you should:

• Taking regular breaks with hamstring stretches and lower back rotations.

• Adjusting your bike properly, make sure your bike's seat and handlebars are at the right height.

• Taking breaks every hour to walk around and stretch.

Gardening at Myriad Botanical Gardens

If you’re volunteering or working at the beautiful Myriad Botanical Gardens, the extensive gardening tasks can take a toll on your back. Here are some ways to protect your back while gardening:

• Using ergonomic tools.

• Taking regular breaks to rest your muscles.

• Doing stretches like forward bends and seated twists.

• Alternating tasks frequently to avoid overuse injuries.

• Using a kneeling pad or garden seat to reduce bending.

• Lifting with your legs instead of your back.

Playing Disc Golf at Will Rogers Park

Disc golf is a popular activity at Will Rogers Park, but bending and twisting to throw discs can strain your back, especially if you play a long course. To avoid back pain while playing disc golf in Oklahoma City, consider these tips:

• Warming up before playing with torso twists and hamstring stretches.

• Using proper throwing techniques and avoiding overextending.

• Taking breaks between games to rest and stretch.

• Staying hydrated.

Attending Long Events at Paycom Center

If you’re planning to catch a Thunder game or a concert, long hours of standing or sitting can leave your lower back aching. To avoid back pain while attending long events, here are some suggestions:

• Wearing appropriate shoes with good support.

• Shifting your weight and moving around if you're standing.

• Getting up and stretching your back during breaks if you're sitting.

• Using a lumbar support cushion for better support.

Setting Up Your Booth at the Oklahoma City Farmers Market

Being a part of the OKC Farmers Market at Scissortail Park is a great way to engage with the community, but setting up your booth can be back-breaking work. To prevent back pain while setting up your booth at the farmers market, follow these tips:

• Lifting with your legs and keeping items close to your body.

• Avoiding twisting your spine while lifting.

• Taking regular breaks to stretch with torso twists and shoulder rolls.

• Using a dolly or cart for heavy items.

Take Care of Your Back After the Fun

Getting involved in these fun activities around Oklahoma City is a great way to soak up everything the city has to offer. Taking care of your back doesn't have to be a hassle. Use these tips to prevent injuries and keep your spine in good shape. If you’ve had a little too much fun and you're dealing with persistent back pain, don't wait for it to get worse. Schedule a free consultation at ChiroHer and get back to enjoying your favorite activities.