It is estimated that there are 30 million people in a given time experiencing and struggle with back pain. Dubbed as the single leading cause of disability by the Global Burden Disease, back pain is usually treated temporarily using prescription pills.
Though it provides instant relief, painkillers such as this can cause ranging effects from stomach ulcers to painkiller addiction. If you want to naturally treat your back pain, here are a couple of tips and tricks that will save your life and your wallet.
Acupuncture
This traditional Chinese method of treatment is designed to improve your “Qi”; also known as your energy or life force. An acupuncturist will know the right points to target as they follow the meridian theory – that is a body contains 2000 focal points that are interconnected by meridians.
They will use hollow and pointed needles to correct the imbalance of your “Qi” and to relieve pain.
Cold/Hot Compress
If the pain is associated with spasms, it can get quite painful. Once spasms occur, a gush of white blood cells are sent to the spastic area and red blood cells start to deplete. This will temporarily block the are from the oxygen and nutrients in needs – which causes more pain and injury.
An alternative cold and hot compress will relieve the pain and the spasms. As soon as you feel that the spasms are starting, immediately apply cold compress on the area, alternating it for 20 minutes with compress and 20 minutes without the compress.
You must do this within 24 to 72 hours. You can start slow stretching alleviate tightness and increase circulation. Afterwards, you can add heat. The heat will help promote the healing process. Just as the cold compress, you need to do an on-and-off procedure for an interval of 20 minutes. You can do this process until you feel relieved.
Seek A Chiropractor
A chiropractor is a specialist who can assist you with pain management too. If your back pain is caused by a previous injury, it is very likely that there is pressure on your spine and nerves. This prevents proper communication with the nerves thereby causing pain and discomfort. In a case like this, a simple adjustment from a chiropractor would be a great help.
Natural Supplements
Using natural supplements to treat and relieve back pain is very common. There are products that can help lessen the pain and inflammation. Some of them can also help strengthen your bones. It all depends on what exactly you need. Looking for the right supplement that works for you will also take some time. Be patient if you want to go in this route.
One example of such a product is the EarthWell Turmeric Curcumin Extract Anti-inflammatory Supplement. It is based on turmeric curcumin, which is known to be one of the strongest natural antioxidants for pain relief. It also contains bioperine which is used for faster effect.
Weight Loss
It’s also possible that excess weight has contributed to your back pain. This weight usually drags the spine, pulling it in a more anterior-arched position. A good workout that can strengthen your core can provide a long-lasting relief for back pain.
Back Support
Sometimes, a back pain would come from improper seating position. If you sit on an uncomfortable chair for long periods of time, you can add some back support by using a foam pillow. You can also add cushions at your back to give you proper posture when sitting down.
Stretching Exercises
Stretching exercises can help you strengthen your lumbar muscles which will help support your weight better. This will also lengthen your back muscles thus alleviating the pain you’re feeling.
Yoga
Attending yoga classes is not only good for meditating but good for your flexibility and strength. This exercise focuses more on the connectedness of your body. Yoga can help increase flexibility, blood circulation and gives you a sense of well-being. You can let your yoga instructor know about your muscle pain so that he or she can teach you tricks that can ease your back pain.