Wednesday, July 2, 2008

Back pain has many causes, treatments

Back pain is almost as inevitable as taxes and death. At some point in life we may have back pain due to overuse, injury, strain, bone loss, aging, illness, automobile accident or falls.

It may be acute, recurring, or last a lifetime. It will always cause physical misery and mental strain. The good news is that most back pain will go away over time with self care. But there are times when a professional is needed. I advises someone who has recently experienced a back injury to seek professional help as soon as possible.

Non-surgical treatment of back pain utilizes a combination of many resources, including chiropractic adjustments, massage, exercise, physical therapy, and even some meditation techniques.

Self care treatment could be a simple as walking tall to relieve putting too much pressure on your spinal disks. Back strain may be relieved by keeping activities to a minimum for a few days and even bed rest. Back support cushions or rolls that take pressure off the spine can help. If cold doesn’t give your back relief, try heat. Soak in a hot bath tub for 20-30 minutes a few times a day or apply a hot pack. For back pain from a saggy mattress slip a sheet of plywood between the mattress and box spring. Pillows between the knees while sleeping on your side may help. When getting out of bed, roll out carefully and slowly using side muscles.

Being overweight and having back pain are inseparable, especially when the weight is around the waste. This added weight stresses soft back tissues and compresses disks.

Practice mind techniques to alleviate pain such as yoga. It is a good way to relax muscles. Biofeedback and progressive relaxation training can help the pain.

Feel free to post any questions you may have on back pain.

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