Three common New Year resolutions – diet, exercise, and better posture -- can help avoid common back and neck pain, UT Southwestern Medical Center rehabilitation specialists say.

Dr. Amy Phelan, Associate Professor of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at UT Southwestern Medical Center, suggests checking with a physician before starting any diet or exercise program, but both can contribute to spine health. Being overweight stresses the neck and spine. Dieting can help reduce that, help maintain a healthy weight, and improve muscle tone and strength.

When sitting, the hips and torso should be balanced under the shoulders. When standing, try to stand straight with the shoulders back, which helps balance forces on your spine and allows it to do its job and support the body optimally.

###

Media Contact: Gregg Shields
gregg.shields@utsouthwestern.edu