Did you know that 65 million Americans have experienced a recent episode of back pain?
Whether it’s a dull ache from working out or a chronic long-term condition, back pain can make you miserable. Fortunately, there are several safe, effective ways to ease the pain and get back on your feet.
Pain relief lies just ahead, so keep reading to learn how to best alleviate back pain.
- Ice & Heat
There’s a lot of confusion about when to use heat or ice for pain. The general rule of thumb is:
- Use ice for new or acute injuries
- Use heat for chronic pain and stiffness
If you pull a muscle in your back and it feels hot and swollen, stick with ice for the first 24-48 hours. If you’re dealing with ongoing back pain from muscle tension or anxiety, heat is a better choice.
Alternate for 15 minutes on, 15 minutes off. Always listen to your body and use whatever feels best to you.
- Chiropractic Adjustment
Did you wake up with a crick in your neck or an ache in your low back? You’ll probably want to seek help from a qualified chiropractor.
When one or more of your vertebrae is out of place, it places pressure on the surrounding nerves and soft tissues. Chiropractors like the ones at Mauricio Chiropractic can identify and painlessly correct misalignments in the spine.
It may take a few treatments to experience full relief, but chiropractors can help you along the road to recovery.
- Massage Therapy
What chiropractors are to the spine, massage therapists are to the muscles. They’re trained to find (and relieve) trigger points and other causes of muscular pain.
Depending on the source of your pain, you may benefit from a relaxing Swedish massage, a therapeutic deep tissue massage, or an invigorating sports massage.
The goal of any massage is to lengthen and relax the muscles, which will bring you relief from back pain.
- Stretch & Stay Active
Whether you sit all day at a desk or you do hard physical labor, either extreme takes its toll on your body.
Dr. Lindsay Clark suggests that throughout the day, take a moment to pause, stand, and stretch your back and legs. If possible, alternate between standing and sitting or invest in a more ergonomic office chair.
It’s also important to move and keep your spine limber—within reason, of course. Make the bed, walk the dog, and do what you can to stay active without aggravating your condition.
- OTC Medications
If none of these natural remedies are working for you, there are several over-the-counter pain medications you could try.
Advil, Aleve, and Tylenol are popular choices, but there are others too. If your back pain is severe, your doctor may prescribe stronger painkillers or muscle relaxants to keep you comfortable while you recover.
Ease Your Back Pain Today
Dealing with back pain is never fun, but the good news is there are plenty of things you can try to feel better.
Use the tips listed above to start feeling better today. Of course, be sure to check with your doctor before you try any new treatment or therapy!
Did you find this article helpful? Be sure to browse our other health and well-being posts for more great information.
Image Credits: Joyce McCown
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