A great deal of lower back ache is caused by injuries, many of which happen while lifting. There are those who suffer from a condition called chronic non-specific back pain, this is a condition where there is no apparent reason for the pain. Regardless of the cause, the first step in finding low back pain relief is to talk to a doctor in an effort to identify the cause.
When the injury is minor there are a number of ways to ease the associated pain, in many cases the best approach to easing the pain is a conservative one. Many people find that although they go to the doctor in considerable pain, within a few weeks they are seeing improvement.
A commonly used early treatment is medication, especially anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen. If the pain is more severe the doctor will usually prescribe muscle relaxants or hydrocodone which is an opiate. Alternate ice packs and heat pads often relieve the pain considerably. The heat has the tendency to relax the muscles and a 20 minute treatment can be quite effective. Ice on the other hand will reduce swelling and can help with freedom of movement, a 15 to 20 minute session is sufficient.
There are also certain body positions that will help in providing low back pain relief. One of the best is to lie on the floor with your back supported at a slight angle, thus allowing your head to drape; this stretches and strengthens the tissues of the spine, helping to return them to normal.
A doctor or a physical therapist can offer a regimen of exercises that are also designed to stretch the back. A doctor may suggest that the sufferer wear a back brace or corset which provides support for the lower back while seated or standing. Light massage is also recommended for pain relief.
The key to fighting back pain is to find out what causes it in the first place. Improper seating is often the culprit and can be the cause of significant back pain. If this is the case, a change to an ergonomically designed chair will help in readjusting one’s posture. Being over-weight can also be a cause and regular light exercise can lower the risk of injuring your back and very important, learn how to properly lift a weight off the ground.
Back curve restoration is a safe, non-invasive approach to low back pain relief. Spinal Curve Solutions have developed a program which focuses on restoring the natural spinal curve.