Tips for Managing Back Pain
Persistent back pain or pain that is incredibly severe should be looked at by a doctor right away. However, you might be experiencing mild back pain due to lifting something the wrong way or for unknown reasons. There are ways for managing back pain on your own at home instead of having to go to the doctor’s office.
Maintain Good Posture
Despite what our mothers’ may have told us, many people still slouch and slump regularly. This habit can wreak havoc on your back, and you should take care to watch how you stand and sit. Maintaining good posture is especially useful when you are lifting something because it could prevent you from injuring your back.
Customize Your Work Station
Many jobs required people to hunch over their desk for eight or more hours a day. This can become especially problematic to back pain, and you should really review how you sit while you work. You should consider getting up to walk every so often so that way you get a chance to stretch your legs and your back. If you have a history of back pain, you should consider getting a chair that supports your back so that you will be comfortable while sitting.
Keep Moving
This may sound counter-intuitive, but if you are experiencing slight back pain, it is a good idea to maintain some sense of normalcy. Naturally, you should avoid any extensive activities like swimming or running, but you should continue to walk around and go to work. Your back is a muscle, and just like any other muscle it needs exercise. Mild movements could help you get over your back pain more quickly.
Some other useful tips for managing back pain include:
- Keeping it on ice
- Taking pain relievers
- Wearing the right kind of shoes
Not all cases of back pain need professional attention, but if your back pain does not go away or if it is preventing you from performing your normal daily routine, you should get a professional opinion. Prompt treatment could get you back up-and-running in no time.
By Dr. James Lin
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