Managing Low Back Pain During the Holidays: Chiropractic Tips for Edmonton Residents

 

The Holiday Season and Low Back Pain — A Common Challenge

 

The holidays are a time for connection, travel, and celebration — but they can also be hard on your back. Long drives, lifting luggage or gifts, decorating, and hours of sitting during family gatherings often combine into a perfect storm for low back strain.

 

Many Edmonton residents notice flare-ups of existing back issues or new pain during this time. The good news: with proactive strategies and chiropractic care, you can stay pain-free and enjoy the holidays comfortably.

 

At Dr. Harman Braich, Chiropractic, operating out of Creekwood Physiotherapy in Southwest Edmonton, we provide evidence-based, patient-centred care designed to relieve pain, improve mobility, and prevent future episodes.

 

Why Low Back Pain Worsens During the Holidays

 

Several seasonal factors contribute to back discomfort:

 

• Increased sitting: Long drives or flights limit movement and stiffen spinal joints.
• Poor lifting habits: Moving heavy boxes, luggage, or decorations without proper technique.
• Stress and fatigue: Mental tension increases muscle tightness in the low back and hips.
• Cold weather: Muscles are less pliable in cold temperatures, increasing strain risk.
• Irregular routines: Changes in sleep, diet, and exercise affect muscle tone and spinal stability.

 

Understanding these triggers helps you stay ahead of pain before it starts.

 

How Chiropractic Care Helps During the Holidays

 

At Dr. Harman Braich, Chiropractic, treatment focuses on restoring movement, reducing inflammation, and improving function — so your spine can handle holiday demands.

 

A comprehensive assessment identifies whether your pain is caused by:

• Joint restriction
• Muscle imbalance
• Nerve irritation
• Postural strain

 

Your individualized plan may include:

 

1. Spinal Adjustments

Gentle, precise adjustments restore joint motion, improve flexibility, and relieve mechanical stress. Regular maintenance care helps your spine adapt to seasonal stressors like travel or lifting.

 

2. Soft Tissue Therapy

Tight back or gluteal muscles are released using manual or instrument-assisted techniques to improve circulation and mobility.

 

3. Exercise-Based Rehabilitation

Dr. Braich prescribes evidence-based movement therapy to strengthen your core and prevent recurrence. Exercises may include:

• Pelvic tilts and bridges
• Lumbar rotations
• Glute activation drills

 

4. Spinal Decompression

For disc-related or chronic back pain, spinal decompression helps relieve nerve pressure and promotes healing by gently stretching the spine.

 

5. Shockwave Therapy for Chronic Back Pain

If muscle or ligament pain lingers, shockwave therapy can accelerate tissue repair and reduce inflammation.

 

Tips to Protect Your Back During the Holidays

 

Lift Smart

Bend your knees, not your waist. Keep objects close to your body and avoid twisting while lifting.

 

Take Breaks When Traveling

Every 45–60 minutes, stand, stretch, or walk to prevent stiffness and circulation issues.

 

Prioritize Movement

Incorporate short walks or gentle mobility sessions each day — even 10 minutes helps.

 

Warm Up Before Activity

Cold muscles are more prone to strain. Perform light dynamic stretches before shoveling, skating, or decorating.

 

Use Supportive Footwear

Choose shoes with proper cushioning and grip to reduce shock and maintain spinal alignment.

 

Stay Hydrated and Rested

Fatigue and dehydration increase muscle tension and delay recovery.

Small, mindful habits make a big difference in keeping your spine healthy through the season.

 

Why Early Chiropractic Assessment Matters

 

Ignoring minor back discomfort can lead to more significant pain down the road.

Early assessment allows for:

• Prompt diagnosis and intervention
• Shorter recovery times
• Prevention of compensatory movement patterns

 

Even a few sessions of chiropractic care during the holidays can significantly reduce stiffness and keep you moving comfortably.

 

Localized Care for Southwest Edmonton Residents

 

At Dr. Harman Braich, Chiropractic, located within Creekwood Physiotherapy, we proudly provide care to residents across Southwest Edmonton, including:

 

• Creekwood Chappelle and Chappelle Gardens
• Ambleside, Keswick, and Windermere
• Glenridding Heights and Glenridding Ravine
• Heritage Valley, Paisley, Desrochers, and Jagare Ridge
• Rutherford, Callaghan, Allard, Cavanagh, and Blackmud Creek
• Richford, Macewan, and Blackburne

 

This ensures residents throughout the region have access to trusted, evidence-based spinal care close to home.

 

Your Path to a Pain-Free Holiday

 

Whether your back pain stems from travel, lifting, or stress, Dr. Harman Braich, Chiropractic provides comprehensive care to help you move and feel your best.

 

Operating out of Creekwood Physiotherapy, Dr. Braich combines manual therapy, exercise rehab, and patient education to restore your spine’s health and resilience.

 

Visit braichchiro.com to book your appointment before the holiday rush.

 

Enjoy the season — comfortably, safely, and pain-free.