What's Causing Back Pain and What to Do About It
By Genevieve Cunningham
Back pain is a common ailment among adults. We use our backs for almost everything! If it requires standing, sitting, moving, or any variation of these things, then your back is doing work. Perhaps it’s because we use them so often that back pain can really get in the way of life. To manage back pain and keep your spine in tip-top shape, check out these common causes of pain and ideas for long-term management.
Common Causes of Back Pain
There are obviously quite a few causes of back pain. Sometimes it’s sore or pulled muscles that cause the pain. Sometimes it’s excessive fatigue. Other times, and probably more often than you realize, it’s misalignments of the vertebrae of the spine that cause pain and tension. So, how do these misalignments occur? A few ways that the spine may become misaligned might include:
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Poor Sleeping Habits - Yes, you can even hurt your back in your sleep! An old, worn out mattress or an unsupportive pillow might do damage to the health of your spine.
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Excessive Work - Work is good for you, but it’s important to do it within reason. Too much work or working in the wrong way can harm your back and cause pain.
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Too Much Weight - If you’re putting on weight and suddenly experiencing back pain, it might be due to the extra pounds. The extra weight can put pressure on the back, forcing it to work harder and longer than it is used to.
Common Treatment Plans
Depending on the source of the pain, there may be different methods for relieving the discomfort. Some ways to eliminate pain temporarily might include:
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Over-the-Counter Medication - A simple Tylenol or Ibuprofen might reduce swelling and subsequent pain.
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Heat - A heating pad can sometimes loosen up the afflicted area, bring in blood for healing, and help the pain dwindle.
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Rest - Don’t underestimate the power of a good rest session. Get off your feet, relax, and take the pressure off of your spine.
A Treatment Plan for Long-Term Management
While the above methods might temporarily reduce pain, you’ll need a way to get rid of misalignments and keep your spine in better health long-term. The best way to do this is with regular chiropractic care. Chiropractors focus specifically on the spine, looking for and correcting these pesky misalignments. If you think this sounds like an avenue that you would like to explore, check out The Joint Chiropractic. At The Joint, you don’t have to worry with busy schedules or insurance. Just use their walk-in visits and affordable pricing to get the care you need without the stress. While back pain might be considered common, it doesn’t have to be normal in your life. Get to The Joint for a healthier spine and pain-free living as soon as today!
