Smart Solutions for Back Pain

By Stepy Kamei

No matter what kind of lifestyle you lead, chances are you will experience some form of back pain at some point in your life. Back pain can affect the upper or lower area of your back, and can be acute or chronic in nature. You may experience a sharp pain after straining a muscle, or you may feel a long-lasting dull pain as a result of an old injury. Regardless of how back pain may enter your life, it's important to address it right away, using smart and safe treatment options so you can get back to a life with minimal to no back pain. In addition to seeing a chiropractor on a regular basis, consider the following tips to help you navigate back pain while at home.

Ice and Heat Therapy

This tip is best for immediate relief from back pain. If you've suddenly developed any sort of sharp or dull pain in the back, whether it's from straining a muscle or simply waking up sore, be sure to break out an ice pack and any sort of heating pad. Take turns alternating between the two over the next few hours in order to relieve pain and prevent the injured area from causing you more discomfort later on. An ice pack will help numb the area and provide quick relief from discomfort while reducing swelling. Meanwhile, heat will relax the blood vessels and stimulate blood flow throughout the affected area, calming down any inflammation of the area in the process.

The Balance Between Movement and Rest

If you're experiencing aches and pains along the back, it's of course important to not overdo any movement, and to rest the area. It's necessary to strike the right balance between movement and rest. Many people are surprised to hear that they should still continue moving around, rather than being completely sedentary, in cases of mild to moderate back pain. That's because regular movement and light stretching will help prevent the joints and muscles from becoming stiff. Movement will also encourage circulation throughout the body, which can help in the healing process. Rather than going for a jog or engaging in heavy exercise, simply go for short walks and practice gentle yoga stretches while you ride out any back pain you may be experiencing.

Visit a Chiropractor at The Joint

Patients who visit a chiropractor tend to have reduced levels of back pain as long as they receive treatments on a regular basis. Chiropractic is a safe and affective method of treatment which has been known to provide lasting relief from all kinds of back pain.

Chiropractors at The Joint Chiropractic clinics are able to assess a patient's spinal cord for any subluxations, or misalignments, which may be contributing to pain and discomfort throughout the back. Using manual manipulation techniques, the chiropractor then uses their hands to gently bring the spine back into its proper alignment.

Many patients experience reduced back pain after just one session, although regular treatment yields the best results. Come on in to The Joint today to see how chiropractic can help bring you lasting relief from back pain.

To learn more about your health, wellness and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Las Vegas, Nev.