Ouch, My Aching Back: Next Step for Relief
By Stephen R. Farris
It never fails. You're in the best shape of your life -- or so you thought -- then a simple task such as moving furniture around in your home changes everything. For instance, you bend down to get a good grip on that couch you're about to move. As you start to ease back up with one end of it, a sharp pain hits you out of nowhere in the middle of your lower back. It's excruciating to say the least.
Your first thought -- after not dropping your end of the sofa on your foot -- is to lay down somewhere since it hurts to even stand. Hey, there's the sofa again. You might try putting heat on the spot where the pain is, or even try icing it to seek relief. But what happens if the pain persists for the rest of the day or even into the next day?
Then it might be time to go see your doctor or local chiropractor. Usually they can diagnose the problem and oftentimes give you a solution to healing your pain so you can get back into action.
It Really, Really Hurts
When you visit your doctor or chiropractor, they can take X-rays and/or MRIs as necessary, plus other tests to better determine the cause of your back pain. It could be as simple as a strain, but if it's more than that they may refer you to a specialist such as a neurologist, or a rheumatologist to name a few.
Taking that First Step
Did you know that 35 to 42 percent of people with their first signs of back pain seek out chiropractic treatment? Chiropractic offers a hands-on approach to adjust your spine and joints and the chance for the body to heal on its on. Both your doctor or local chiropractor will offer suggestions to help guide you with a healthier diet and stretching exercises so you can start to heal quicker.
Try to Stay Active
One of the main suggestions you will hear from either your doctor or chiropractor is that you need to keep on moving; stay active unless the pain ends up requiring a surgical procedure. Your chiropractor can determine if that needs to be the case, but chiropractic is the natural alternative to surgery. Statistically, those with back injuries who see a chiropractor first are less likely to have to undergo surgery.
To learn more about your health, wellness and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Atlanta, Ga.