Steps You Can Take at Home to Relieve Back Pain

When you suffer from back pain, every other facet of your life might be affected. Although you may be working with a professional for ongoing treatment, there are a few things you can do at home that will help to relieve back pain.

One of the easiest things you can do as you recover from acute back pain is to change the way you are sitting. For example, it is helpful to reduce the amount of time that you spend sitting in one position. After ten or fifteen minutes, get up and mover around. Choose a firm chair with arm rests and room for some lumbar support. (This could be a rolled up towel or a small pillow.) Place your feet flat on the floor and make sure that your hips and knees are at a right angle. When you want to stand, move forward on the chair and then straighten your legs. Try to avoid bending at the waist. Use similar techniques when standing, driving, and kneeling.

Next, take good care of your general health. Many back pain sufferers find that they have difficulty sleeping, but a good night’s rest is important to a full recovery. You may need to purchase a better mattress or use a pillow between the knees to find comfort as you sleep. An appropriate regimen of exercise, such as yoga and other gentle workouts, can also help to reduce the pain in your back. Some individuals have found that losing a few pounds can bring relief. Physical therapy can be a crucial component to easing back pain.

If you are working with a pain relief specialist, you might have some medication or supplements to take. However, applying hot or cold packs can also provide some comfort. A cold pack works to reduce swelling and a heated bottle can ease the discomfort from muscle spasms or cramps. A warm bath may have some positive effects as well.

There is no point to suffering from back pain. Make sure to follow the recommendations of your care provider and then do those things at home that can enhance your treatment and relieve back pain. As you develop good habits, you might find that your back pain is much easier to bear.

By Dr. James  Lin
If you are reading this on any other blog than Comprehensive Pain Management Center or via my RSS Feed, it is stolen content without credit.
You can find me on Twitter via @DrJamesTLin
Come and visit our blog at http://www.compainmc.com/blog/