STEPS FOR LOW BACK PAIN RELIEF
At one point or another 80 percent of us will experience a bout of significant back pain in our lives. While two-thirds of those with back pain are unable confidently identify the reason for their pain there are steps we can take to resolve our complaints should they arise. Here are a few remedies that you can try to control back pain.
REST
It is important when you are experiencing low back pain to limit your activity and rest so that your back can heal.
COLD/HOT PACKS
Apply cold packs to your back to help decrease your pain and inflammation in the joints and muscles. To prevent damage to skin and surrounding tissue, cold packs should only be applied in 15-minute intervals. When problems are related to spasm and soft tissue tightness, heating pads can also be utilized. When available moist heat or a hot shower can more easily penetrate the soft tissue than “dry-heat” can making this option even more effective.
STRETCH
If you don’t have increased pain with movement, stretching the leg, hip, and back muscles can be the first step in helping to loosen up your back and decrease the pain. Stretching can be performed independently but is often more effective with a partner or your physical therapist. If you are not sure how to stretch consider consulting with a physical therapist before starting on a treatment regimen.
PHYSICAL THERAPY
Physical therapy consists of hands-on treatment to loosen muscles and joints, education on proper posture and movement to decrease pain, instruction on stretching and strengthening exercises to restore mobility and strength, and modalities such as electrical stimulation, cold/heat and ultrasound. After a therapist has taken the time with you to evaluate your injury you can decide on what treatment options are best for you to help reduce your pain and address to causes of your condition.
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