Eight out of ten adults suffer from lower back pain. The problem seems to worsen with age and may be common in men working in certain industries. Dealing with back pain can be a hassle, especially because the problem can affect your range of movement and quality of sleep. You can see QC Kinetix website for more common lower back pain symptoms.
Minimizing lower back pain symptoms is possible using a range of treatments, therapies, and modalities. Below are some of the common, effective home remedies for low back pain.
Over-The-Counter Pain Medication
Over-the-counter pain medication or OTC medicines are the commonest resort when dealing with back pain. These medications help reduce discomfort and improve recovery from minor strains or injuries.
Over-the-counter pain medications are classified into two categories; nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and acetaminophens. Although both pain medications address painful symptoms, the NSAIDs target the specific inflammation causing the swelling.
In addition to over-the-counter medications, low back pain victims can also try topical skin creams, ointments, and patches for their back pain. These products are designed to help manage pain by temporarily numbing the affected area.
It is important to note that none of these are permanent solutions to low back pain, however, they can relieve you of pain while you seek a more permanent solution to the problem.
Hot and Cold Therapy
This is another accessible home therapy for addressing low back pain. Many low back pain victims have credited this therapy for improving their back health and reducing the pain they experience.
This therapy involves the use of heating pads or ice packs. Both temperature extremes can be useful for addressing pain in the lower back region.
If using the ice packs, you can expect to enjoy lower inflammation and a significant decrease in swelling. If using the heat pads, you can expect improved blood flow which eases and relaxes the muscles.
To get the best outcomes, use the cold or hot therapy for at least 20 minutes at a go. You can try the therapy repeatedly throughout the day for improved comfort and outcomes.
It’s important to note that this is also a temporary treatment for low back pain.
Gentle Massages
Massages and massage therapy are great ways to reduce tension and dissipate bunched muscles or nerves. Massage therapy can effectively reduce the pain you’re experiencing in your lower back region. More than that, it can also boost blood circulation, help regulate your body temperature, and improve your sleep quality.
Ensure that the massage is done by a professional to prevent worsening your condition. You should also apply appropriate pressure to the affected area to avoid further complications.
Gentle Exercises
Exercising is an excellent way to improve your joints and lower back health. The gentle exercises can also strengthen your muscles and help you heal better. Some recommended exercises to improve your back health include swimming, stretching, and walking. These light and simple exercises can promote your healing and increase blood flow to the affected area and across the body.
Are There Permanent Solutions to Lower Back Pain?
Yes, there are a few permanent solutions to lower back pain. Most low back pain victims tired of relying on pain medications have two options, the surgical and non-surgical treatments.
The surgical approach to back pain treatment often involves invasive procedures to address the spinal cord, spinal discs, and other problem areas in the lower back region. On the other hand, the non-surgical approach leverages natural treatment methods to address the problem and promote joint recovery.
Patients looking to avoid surgery can always explore the many natural treatment approaches, including sports medicine, regenerative medicine treatments, and chiropractic care.
Can I Prevent Lower Back Pain?
Preventing lower back pain is a great way to avoid choosing between surgical and non-surgical back pain treatment options. To protect yourself from back pain, you’ll need to imbibe some healthy practices that improve the back muscles, bones, tendons, and ligaments.
Some of the recommended tips to prevent lower back pain include;
- Avoid carrying loads that are too heavy for you.
- Avoid bending with your knees when carrying really heavy loads.
- Achieve and maintain a healthy weight.
- Eat healthily and focus on packing your body with loads of calcium, vitamin D, and phosphorus to improve healthy bone formation.
- Sleep on your side. Use a supportive pillow to keep your spinal cord aligned if sleeping on your back or stomach.
- Wear properly fitting footwear to support your gait and posture.
Following the tips above can help prevent lower back pain or eliminate its return after treatment.
