Back discomfort is a very common problem, with upwards of 80% of adults experiencing some form of it at some point in their lives. Do not let this problem overwhelm you and try these tips first. It is often possible to treat back discomfort without outside intervention.
There are fitness programs that are very effective in decreasing injuries to the back and the pain that results from them. For instance, yoga’s great flexibility can prevent some unnecessary muscle strains. Likewise, exercises that focus on strengthening your core muscles can help people that regularly do heavy lifting to better endure the demands of their job by fortifying the most frequently used back muscles.
When you start to feel a backache coming on, lay with your knees and hips at about 90 degrees. This position is known to be more comfortable for those with back pain than other positions. If this position doesn’t work for you then try others– whatever works for you is the best position possible!
Don’t lift a box or container until you know its contents if you want to avoid hurting your back. You could be lifting something really heavy, which could damage your back. Do not let your judgment of the box size cause you to hurt your back.
Treat your back pains with the simplest remedies first. You will benefit considerably from even a few days’ worth of rest. There are some great anti-inflamatories available on the market, such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen, that can really help you get through those tough days. Older solutions that have stood through the test of time will work wonders as well, like the application of hot and cool cloths to the suffering area.
If you’re 10 pounds more than your desired weight, you need to get on a diet. Extra weight can change the balance of your body. This shift puts strain on your lower back, and will cause long term back pain.
Your physician may want you to get back surgery; this is an option to aid in helping your back pain. Surgery is only considered after all other options have been unsuccessful. For certain types of back discomfort and injuries, surgery is the most effective method.
If you have exhausted all the strategies that you are aware of to help with your back, consider seeing a chiropractor and letting him or her do an adjustment. At your initial visit the chiropractor will order x-rays so that he can develop a treatment plan for your condition. If you follow your doctor’s suggestions your back discomfort should decrease over time.
You have read about how common back pain is, and sometimes it’s about finding what is causing you pain instead of jumping to the doctor right away. Take the advice that this article has given you, and make sure you are always taking good care of your back every day.
