Natural Solutions for Back Pain

By Donna Stark

Back pain is common and chances are that you or someone you know has experienced it at some point or another. If you haven't experienced it yet, consider yourself lucky because back pain can really do a number on the quality of your life. And if it's not addressed quickly enough, it can do a number on your overall health and wellness too. It's important to do whatever you can to prevent any injuries to your back but just in case your luck runs out, there are some things you can do to alleviate the pain. Check them out below.

Avoid Bed Rest

Generally, our natural instinct is to immobilize what hurts and in many cases, that instinct is spot on. But when it comes to back pain, bed rest (or couch rest) could be the worst decision you can make. Unless your doctor says otherwise, you should try to stay as active as you can. Motion is exactly what your back needs so try to engage yourself in low-impact exercises, such as walking, swimming, or tai chi.

Stretch Daily

Speaking of motion, stretching is a great way to relieve the stress and tension in your back. Whether you commit to some extra stretches in the morning or become involved with a yoga class, your back will be sure to respond positively.

Play With Temperature

A heating pad and ice pack can alleviate some of the pain you are feeling by easing muscle tension and reducing inflammation. Use heat for those times when your muscles feel tight and you want them to relax and stick with a cold compress to reduce nerve irritation and swelling.

Check Your Mattress

If it's been awhile since you've had a new mattress and you are starting to wake up with back pain, it may be time to start looking for a new one. Just like everything else, mattresses have a lifespan. Sleep experts recommend buying a new one every eight years or so. And while you are at it, get yourself some new pillows too!

Get adjusted

If, after trying the above, you are still experiencing pain, your best bet would be to see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic. Chiropractic adjustments can help ease the tension and strain in your back, remove joint dysfunctions, reduce inflammation, and soothe irritated nerves.

Staying a Step Ahead of Back Pain

Sometimes back pain happens no matter how many precautions you take but don't despair! There are several things you can try to do to alleviate the pain. And if they don't work, you can always head on in to see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic.

To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Parma, Ohio.