Back pain is one of the most common complaints for people all over the world. More people visit their doctors for back pain problems than for any other medical condition.
Doctors visits are expensive, and having to go see him every time your back pain flares up can be inconvenient. If you want to learn what you can do at home to control your back pain more effectively, read over the helpful suggestions in this article.
Sometimes the pain on your back is caused by stiffness. Stiff back muscles limit your range of motion. If you turn too much in one direction, you will feel a searing pain on your back. To increase your range of mobility without pain, do some gentle stretches on your back muscles. Stretch up one arm as high as you can as if you are reaching for the ceiling. Feel the same side of your back stretching.
Hold this position for twenty seconds, then release. Stretch up your other arm hold that in place, then release. This gentle and gradual stretch will warm up your back muscles and will make them feel better when you move around.
If your back suffers from muscle spasms, try the hot and cold method. Apply heat to your back for fifteen minutes, than apply a cold pack to the same area for fifteen minutes. Do this for several cycles. The heat relaxes the muscle while the cold contracts it. Doing this for several rounds will work the back muscle to loosen it up, relieving the spasm.
You can take an over-the-counter pain medication to block the pain and reduce inflammation. Take only as directed. If you feel like you need something stronger, consult your physician for a prescription-strength pain killer.
A main cause of your back pain may be over exertion. It is important that you remember to take breaks throughout the day from whatever you are doing. If you sit at a desk all day, this can cause your back to stiffen, resulting in back pain. Therefore, you should get up every hour to walk around. This improves circulation in all of your muscles. It gives your back a chance to stretch and maintain flexibility.
An option in treating nerve-related back pain is the use of a device that delivers electrical stimulation. This device is implant on your back and stimulates your spinal cord. The stimulator delivers pulses to your spine and blocks the nerve impulses that deliver pain signals to your brain. This is good method to relieve chronic pain that is severe and constant.
You may think that if you have back pain, the best thing to do is to get plenty of bed rest. Although bed rest is good, do not overdo it. Staying in bed too long will only make your back stiffer and reduce circulation. Get up and walk around for a little bit. Do gentle stretches. This will increase the circulation and help your back stay flexible.
Do not let your life be controlled by back pain. Try these suggestions and take good care of your back.
