Healthcare Healing

Suggestions to Follow During the Healing Process

1. Avoid rubbing, probing, or "poking" in the areas your doctor adjusts. Use an ice pack if you are sore 15-20 minutes every two hours as needed.
2. Avoid sudden twists or turns of movement beyond normal limits of motion. Do not "crack" or "pop" your neck or low back.
3. Avoid extreme bending of your spine in any direction; avoid stretching, reaching, or other overhead work. When getting your hair washed at the hair salon, have your neck well padded with towels.
4. When picking up objects, bend your knees to minimize the strain on your lower back. Ask for help frequently when you are at your worst, don't try to be a hero.
5. When lifting, keep your back straight; bend your knees and let your legs bear the strain. Hold the object lifted as close to your body as possible. Avoid all heavy lifting in the early treatment stages.
6. Participate in simple exercises to strengthen your body, but avoid jarring activities which place stress on your neck and spine. Beginning a walking program is an excellent choice. Ask Dr. Nunez for his recommendations.
7. Watch your posture regularly; stand tall, sit tall and THINK tall!
8. Be patient! The more injuries you had in the past the more likely it is that your recovery will be more gradual. Stick with it.

Rest, Relaxation, and Sleep

1. Set aside a special time each da for complete mental and physical relaxation. This is important in the restoration - as well as maintenance - of total health. Naps are encouraged!
2. When sitting, choose a chair that has adequate back support or place a small pillow in the small of your back, and then sit straight. Avoid too soft, overstuffed chairs. Recliner chairs are acceptable.
3. Be sure to get plenty of sleep to allow your body to recuperate and repair. Sleep on a firm mattress.
4. Your pillow should support your head so that your neck vertebrae will be level with the rest of your spine.
5. Sleep on oyur back or on our side with your legs flexed slightly, not drawn up tightly. Avoid sleeping on your stomach.
6. Rise from bed by turning on your side and swinging your legs off the bed, then push yourself into a sitting position with your arms, thus minimizing the strain on your back.
7. Do not sleep sitting in a chair or in cramped quarters, Lie down in bed when it is time to sleep.

ASK DR. NUNEZ ABOUT ANY PHASE OF YOUR HEALTH CARE AT ANY TIME!