Submitted by Capital Ortho
The holidays have a way of filling our calendars — and our hands. Boxes of decorations come down from the attic. Grocery bags cover the kitchen counter. Thanksgiving meals require hours of preparation, and visits with loved ones may mean a long drive.
In the middle of making everything special for everyone else, it’s easy to overlook your own comfort. This season, a little planning and a little grace can help you care for your back while enjoying the traditions that matter most.
“The goal isn’t to sit out the holidays,” says neurosurgeon Philip Azordegan, MD. “It’s to approach the things you enjoy thoughtfully, recognize your limits, and ask for help when you need it.”
- Share the load. Before moving decorations or rearranging furniture, consider whether you need another set of hands. Divide heavy loads into smaller ones, keep items close to your body when carrying them, and avoid twisting while lifting. Let someone else tackle the oversized storage bin.
- Give yourself time. Decorating the house or preparing a holiday meal doesn’t have to happen in one marathon session. Spread tasks over several days when possible. During kitchen prep, alternate between sitting and standing, and take breaks before discomfort builds.
- Make movement part of the season. A busy schedule can crowd out your usual routine. Keep room for comfortable activity, whether that’s a short walk with family or gentle movement during the day. On long trips, plan opportunities to stop and move around. If you already have back pain, ask your healthcare provider which activities are appropriate for you.
- Listen when pain persists. Pain that isn’t improving, keeps returning, or interferes with everyday activities deserves attention. Pain traveling into a leg, numbness, or weakness also warrants medical evaluation. New loss of bladder or bowel control requires urgent care.
“You don’t have to wait until pain becomes unbearable to seek guidance,” Dr. Azordegan says. “Understanding what’s causing your symptoms can help you make informed decisions about your care.”
Finally, give yourself permission to simplify. Accept the offer to bring a side dish. Leave a few decorations in the box. Choose a comfortable chair and enjoy the conversation.
As we enter a season of gratitude and celebrate Christ’s birth, remember that caring for yourself can help you be more present with the people you love. Comfort and joy don’t require a perfectly decorated home or an elaborate meal. Sometimes, they begin with slowing down enough to enjoy being together.
Philip Azordegan, MD, is a neurosurgeon at Capital Ortho with more than 30 years of experience serving the Jackson area. A Johns Hopkins medical graduate, he completed his neurosurgical residency at Baylor College of Medicine. He specializes in treating neck and back conditions with a personal, patient-first approach.
