Back pain is a common ailment that many individuals deal with on a daily basis. If you suffer from back pain, you should know that you’re not alone.
However, you shouldn’t allow your suffering to continue; instead, take action against this pain. With this in mind, here is what to do when you’re suffering from back pain.
See a Chiropractor
If your pain is grueling, you should talk to someone who deals with back pain professionally, like a chiropractor. Chiropractors have the knowledge and the skills to identify where an issue is taking place and potentially resolve it right in their office.
Nonetheless, you might be asking yourself, “Does my insurance cover my chiropractic care?” The answer is yes, but depending on the service that you need the chiropractor to perform, you might have to seek a referral from your health care provider or primary care doctor.
Correct Your Posture
Sometimes, back pain isn’t caused by an injury but stems from poor posture. Therefore, you can help relieve symptoms of back pain by sitting up straight and fixing your posture when you’re performing routine activities.
Most people have sedentary lifestyles due to working in front of a computer all day. If this describes your job, you should be extra cautious of your posture because small changes to your spine will greatly exaggerate over time. Nonetheless, improving your posture will have the most impact if you’re an athlete because you will be able to balance easier and use your muscles fully.
Dull the Pain With an Ice or Heat Pack
Applying ice to the area of your back that has the most pain could help you find pain relief. Ice helps to block pain by numbing the nerves where you feel it, and ice also constricts your blood vessels and tightens muscles to lessen your nervous system’s response.
If you don’t have an ice pack around, you can use a pack of frozen vegetables from the freezer or try to take a cold shower or bath. You can also swap out the ice pack for a heat source because the heat will help you relax your muscles if they are feeling stiff. Use your best judgment to decide which type of pack you need for your pain.
Stretch Your Muscles
Whether you have chronic back pain or acute pain from an injury or a tough workout, stretching can help you prevent any future problems with your back. The quadratus lumborum stretch is one of the six best exercises for low-back pain you can do in 10 minutes per day.
Overall, you don’t have to let back pain take control of your life. Now that you know what to do when you’re suffering from back pain, you can neutralize your pain and live a happier and healthier life.
Alex is a fitness aficionado, empowers others towards healthier, active lives through small, sustainable changes for lasting results. Visit Gearuptofit.com for insightful tips and resources to enrich a balanced lifestyle.