As September draws near and anticipation for Husker football grows, numerous dedicated fans are preparing for hours spent on bleachers. However, this extended seating often accompanies the discomfort of bleacher back pain. Anyone who has endured a 2-3 hour sporting event knows that bleachers were not designed for comfort. Crafted from rigid plastic or metal, they lack proper back support, and when the stadium is packed, personal space becomes limited.
Prevent Bleacher Back Pain
A common response to these challenges is the tendency to lean forward and rest elbows on knees. Although this position might seem comfortable initially, it is an unnatural posture that places increased stress on the spine, ultimately leading to back pain.
Continue reading to discover effective methods for avoiding bleacher back pain this football season while still relishing a few games at Memorial Stadium.
Prioritize Your Posture
Consciously maintaining proper posture is among the most effective strategies for promoting spinal health. While seated, it’s essential to preserve the natural curvature of your back. To ensure correct sitting posture, adhere to the following guidelines:
- Sit with a straight back and shoulders held back.
- Distribute your body weight evenly between both hips.
- Keep your knees bent at a 90-degree angle, aligning knee height with hip height.
- Place your feet flat on the floor.
- Utilize your abdominal muscles to provide support when sitting without a backrest.
- Aim to change your sitting position every 30 minutes to avoid prolonged stress.
Invest in Back Support
Fortunately, advancements in recent decades have led to the development of back supports tailored for stadium seating. Numerous sports venues, including Memorial Stadium, offer rental seats equipped with built-in back support. Alternatively, you can invest in your own back support and bring it along to each game. When selecting back support, prioritize a robust seat with ample cushioning to shield you from the unforgiving nature of hard bleachers.
There are proactive steps you can take to prevent bleacher back pain. If you are currently experiencing back pain, it’s strongly advised to seek professional medical assistance. You can explore the Find a Doctor section on our website to locate a board-certified surgeon at Nebraska Spine Hospital who can provide expert guidance and care.
