7 Ways To Heal Back Pain
Over 26 million people in the U.S. aged 20 to 64 deal with regular back pain, according to a National Institute of Health Statistics survey. If you are one of the many people who suffer from this debilitating pain on a daily basis, you probably feel very frustrated. This kind of pain can prevent you from doing your daily activities. There is some positive news, though. It is possible to reduce back pain and live a normal life. Here are seven effective ways to deal back pain:
Drop Some Weight
Extra weight can make back pain a lot worse. When you carry around more pounds than you should, it can put extra pressure on your spine, causing discomfort in your back. If you get yourself down to a healthy weight, it can do wonders for your back. Start by cutting junk food out of your diet and adding wholesome foods, like chicken, turkey, whole grain bread, fruits and vegetables. Exercising a few times a week will also help you burn extra calories and lose weight steadily.
Try Yoga
Yoga can do so much good for your body, including reducing back pain. Certain yoga poses can make your muscles stronger and lengthen your spine. A child pose, for example, is one of the simplest and most effective yoga poses for back pain. It lengthens your back and makes it feel much better. To perform this pose, Everyday Health recommends starting on your hands and knees. Sit back on your heels and rest your belly on your thighs. Extend your arms in front of your body. Stay in this pose for five to 10 breaths.
Use Heat
Another good way you can reduce back pain is to apply heat to the area. Heat can relieve cramping and muscle spasms in your back. While you are sitting down in a chair, apply a heating pad on your back until the pain goes away.
Get a New Mattress
A mattress is not supposed to last forever. In fact, sleeping on an old mattress can lead to back pain. If you feel yourself sinking into the mattress, it is time to invest in a new one. An old mattress will not give your back the support it needs, causing pain and discomfort.
Put the Cigarettes Away
If you are looking to reduce back pain and decrease your chances of developing several chronic diseases, it is time to quit smoking. This habit can cause back pain by reducing oxygen in the cells in your spine. Breaking this habit will not be easy, but it can certainly be done. Ask your doctor for suggestions on how to quit successfully.
Improve Your Posture
It is easy to slouch if you have to sit all day at your job. However, poor posture can put more strain on your back. To prevent back pain, make an effort to improve your posture. Sit up straight with your shoulders back. Whenever you get the urge to slouch, just think about what it will do to your back.
Visit a Chiropractor
If it seems like nothing will help your back pain, you should make an appointment with an experienced chiropractor soon. One of these healthcare professionals will use his hands to manipulate your spine, which will help relieve back pain. If it is necessary, a chiropractor may also provide nutritional counseling and show you different exercises for your back. Chiropractic care is safer than taking medication and can make you feel like a whole new person. Contact a clinic like Rockwood Chiropractic for more information.
Do not let yourself live with back pain forever. If you follow these helpful tips, you can reduce pain and discomfort in your back and feel like new again.