Five Non-Surgical Methods For Treating Lower Back Pain
There are several ways to effectively treat lower back pain, although you should begin with a professional diagnosis from a physician. Once you've been examined and diagnosed, your doctor may recommend a treatment plan. This may include losing weight and maintaining good posture and ergonomics, as well as the use of pain medication and hot and cold applications. Physical therapy and exercise may also be beneficial.
Here are some treatment methods to relieve your lower back pain:
1. Maintain a Healthy Weight
If you're overweight, your doctor may recommend a diet and exercise program. In some cases, losing excess weight may reduce the strain that contributes to your back pain. You should not begin an exercise program without consulting with your doctor.
2. Check Your Posture, Ergonomics and Work Habits
If you work slouched over at your desk or your chair doesn't provide good lumbar support, you could be placing strain on your lower back. Use a supportive chair with a high back for support. You might also find that using a massage cushion with your office chair brings you relief from lower back.
Bending at the waist while lifting heavy objects and locking the knees may also place stress on the lower back. This may contribute to lower back pain. The proper way to lift an object is by bending your knees slightly and squatting.
Other advice for lifting: never twist your waist while lifting a heavy object. If you must change your direction, turn your entire body. If an object is extremely heavy, ask a friend or co-worker to help you lift or move it. In addition, wear a supportive back brace or belt when lifting the heavy object.
3. Take Your Medication
Your doctor may recommend over the counter pain medication to treat mild to moderate lower back pain. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDS) such as ibuprofen may reduce the inflammation and provide some degree of relief. If your pain is more severe, you may be given a prescription may killer. Always follow directions and do not exceed recommended dosage of your pain medication.
4. Try Hot and Cold Applications
Alternating between hot and cold may bring relief from lower back pain. Begin by using a heating pad for 20-30 minutes several times a day. You may find moist heat works best. Alternatively, a warm shower with the use of a pulsating shower head may relieve your pain. Try following up your heat application with the use of an ice pack wrapped inside a towel.
You might need to experiment to discover which method works best for you. Some individuals find relief with heat, while others find that cold or ice packs work better. Once you find the best method, continue using it to diminish your lower back pain.
5. Consider Physical Therapy and Exercise
If your doctor feels it will be beneficial, he or she may prescribe physical therapy. This will typically include a few weekly sessions for a determined period of time. After an evaluation by a physical therapist, you may be shown exercises that will help relieve your pain and strengthen your lower back. Strengthening and stretching exercises are some of the most common techniques to relieve lower back pain, and you may continue these exercises at home.
As part of your physical therapy, your instructor may use electrical stimulation. Referred to as transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS), this is a commonly-used practice for pain management. The use of this therapy involves attaching tiny electrodes to your lower back with an adhesive. The electrodes are connected to wires which connect to a machine that delivers very low electrical impulses to the nerves. After several sessions, you may experience relief.
Consult with your doctor and a physical therapist if you want to find lower back pain treatments that will work for you.