Enlisting in the military is one of the most important decisions one can make in their life. For those who are already experiencing low back pain, the decision should be carefully considered. The reason for this is because one of the most common reasons for disability in the military is low back pain. However, you can still enlist in the military with low back pain, as long as you pass the medical standards evaluation at the military entrance processing station (MEPS) or obtain a waiver. 

If you've decided to serve your country in the military, here are a few important things to do that can help you prepare your back for the grueling physical challenges that you will face, particularly in boot camp or basic training. 

Strong Core 

Strengthening your core, the muscle groups in your midsection are extremely helpful in diminishing lower back pain and preventing it from reoccurring in the future. The core muscle group is essentially all the muscles in your body other than the muscles in your legs and arms. These muscles are used every time you move your body, and since you'll be moving your body quite extensively in the military, especially during initial training, it's a good idea to head into your military service with a strong core. Various exercises to improve your core include deadlifts, squats, barbell rowing, and abdominal and oblique training exercises such as sit-ups and crunches. 

Chiropractic Spinal Adjustments 

However, before doing these types of strenuous exercises, it's a good idea to make sure your spine is in proper alignment with the help of a chiropractor. Regular chiropractic adjustments to your spine can help alleviate low back pain so you'll be able to strengthen your core to prepare for military physical fitness requirements. Speak with your chiropractor for recommendations on when and how to strengthen your core following spinal adjustments. 

Good Posture 

One thing that will be instilled in you during your military training and career is good posture, which can also benefit your back and help with lower back pain. During military drills, which are the organized movements that a platoon does while in formation, you will be expected to stand straight and tall while marching with your thumbs placed along the side seams of your pant legs. Practice maintaining this good posture throughout the day so your body will become accustomed to it before you will be expected to do so for hours at a time during initial military training. 

For more information, contact a company like Davison Chiropractic.