How to Cope with Low Back Pain
When low back pain hits, it’s hard to think about anything else. It’s so disruptive that it’s among the top reasons people call in sick to work. Your lower back supports your entire upper body. This means it’s especially prone to stress and strain. Every lift and twist you make comes from the lower back.
Low back pain is usually caused by either a sudden injury, like a car accident, or wear and tear caused by arthritis, aging, or physical activity. Regardless of how it started hurting, you should take steps to cope with it so you can live your life without pain.
Here’s how you can cope with low back pain.
– Use good posture
This is especially important when you participate in sports or your job consists of repetitive motions. Don’t slouch and keep your spine straight. Bend and straighten from your knees when you’re lifting, and when twisting, move your hips.
Good posture is also required when sitting. You can cause low back pain from sitting at your desk job too. Always keep your feet on the floor and use a good chair that supports your lower back. Don’t hunch over your computer or reach too far in front of you to access your keyboard and mouse.
– Heat and cool
When it comes to low back injuries, using ice right after the injury (the first 24 to 72 hours) will help reduce swelling and quell pain. Heat can be used to help relax tight muscles after that. You can also alternate between hot and cold when treating low back pain that is caused by a herniated disc.
– Stretch your back
A physiotherapist can help you learn how to stretch your back right to relieve back pain and correct problems. These stretches will improve posture and strengthen the muscles along your spine. When you do them daily, you’ll begin to feel much better and notice you have less pain.
– Keep your weight in check
Even if you’re only a slightly overweight, that puts more strain on your lower back. This strain gets worse with age. Aim to shake that excess weight off and eat healthfully so you can reduce the strain.
– Always be active
It might seem tempting to stay in bed when
your back hurts, but you should get moving. The more you move, the better your
back will heal. Again, a physiotherapist can show you what to do so you start
feeling better again.
– Have a massage
Massage is another way that you can repair low back pain. It helps boost the circulation to the muscles and relieves the tension. Even if you’re doing physiotherapy, massages will also help in your recovery.
Don’t suffer with low back pain alone! Call us and we’ll send expert physiologists and massage therapists to your home when it’s convenient for you so you can start feeling better!
