8 Ways to Relieve Back Pain
Dr. Baruch received his medical degree from Touro College of Osteopathic Medicine. He then completed his post-graduate training in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at the University Hospital of Brooklyn, SUNY Downstate Medical Center serving as administrative chief resident during his final year. He went on to complete... more
It's never fun to deal with body aches and pains. However, back pain may be the most severe. According to the National Institute of Health (NIH), it's one of the most common reasons people schedule doctor's appointments and miss work. Fortunately, there are numerous options for pain relief, including the best back pain treatments recommended by professionals.
Treatments for back pain range from simple to complex, and the best course of action for you is determined by how long you've been in pain, the severity and location of your pain, and whether your pain is structural or muscular.
Here are some of the best treatment methods for your back pain:
1. Sleep Better
Sleeping can be difficult when you have back pain. A lack of sleep can aggravate your back pain, and a bad sleeping position can aggravate back pain. Lie down on your side. Put a pillow between your knees to keep your spine in a neutral position and reduce back strain. Place a pillow between your knees to comfortably sleep on your back. Make certain that you are sleeping on a mattress that is firm enough for you.
2. Medication From the Store
Over-the-counter pain relievers, like anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and acetaminophen, are commonly used to treat back pain. Both have some side effects that some people may be unable to tolerate. Before taking pain relievers, consult your doctor. And don't expect medication to solve your pain problem on its own.
3. Prescription Pain Relievers
Some people may require prescription-strength NSAIDs or opioid medications to relieve pain. If you are taking any other medications, including over-the-counter medications, you should consult your doctor or pharmacist to avoid overdosing on certain active ingredients. Your doctor may also prescribe muscle relaxants to help relieve painful muscle spasms.
4. Physical Therapy
Physical therapists may show you how to sit, stand, and move in a way that keeps your spine aligned and relieves back strain. They can also teach you exercises to strengthen the core muscles that support your back. One of the best ways to avoid future back pain is to develop a strong core. According to research, back pain can be reduced by increasing your strength, flexibility, and endurance – but it takes time.
5. Ice and Heat
Applying ice to painful areas of your back regularly may help reduce pain and inflammation caused by an injury. Experiment with this several times daily for up to 20 minutes each time. To protect your skin, wrap the ice pack in a thin towel. Turn on the heat after a few days. Use a heating pad or warm pack to relax your muscles and boost blood flow to the affected area. Warm baths can also help with relaxation. Never sleep on a heating pad to avoid burns and tissue damage.
6. Massage
Is it true that massage relieves back pain after you leave the table? According to a recent study, one weekly massage over 10 weeks improved pain and functioning in people with chronic back pain. The benefits lasted about six months before fading after a year. Spinal manipulation is another hands-on approach. This treatment, when performed by a licensed specialist, can help relieve structural problems in the spine and restore lost mobility.
7. Spinal Injections
Your doctor may recommend spinal injections to help relieve your back pain. Doctors who specialize in pain management may use a variety of injections. An injection of a corticosteroid, for example, can help relieve the inflammation that is causing the pain. Depending on the type of injection, your doctor may limit the amount of doses you receive per year to avoid potential side effects.
8. Surgery
If a bulging disc puts pressure on a nerve, your doctor may suggest a discectomy to remove some of the disc material. A laminectomy may also be recommended to decompress an area where nerves or the spinal cord are being compressed. Spinal fusion surgery may be performed to help stabilize the spine. These, like all surgeries, carry risks and are not always successful. As a result, they should only be used as a last resort.
