Four Things You Can Do At Home To Help Your Slipped Disc Heal
If you have slipped a disc in your back, then it is important that you see a professional, such as a chiropractor or your general physician, for treatment. However, you should also focus on taking good care of your back at home in order to speed up the recovery process. Here are four things you should do at home to speed up your recovery after a slipped disc.
Rest
No matter how good you feel, it is important not to push yourself while you are recovering. You may feel great one minute, but bending the wrong way or picking up something that's a little too heavy could cause your injury to worsen. Your physician or chiropractor will tell you what activities you can still do, and which ones you should avoid. Stick to this list. If an activity causes you pain, stop doing it, and do not do it again without first checking with your medical practitioner.
Ice
Ice helps reduce swelling, which is a key factor in slipped discs. Icing your back can be tough, but here's a strategy that works: Lay a bag of frozen peas or carrots on the couch or bed, and then lie down so that your back is in contact with the frozen veggies. Wiggle up or down to ensure the injured area is centered over the veggies. When you're done icing your back, which takes about 15 minutes, all you have to do is sit up.
Massage
For very serious slipped discs, your medical practitioner may recommend against massage in case the rubbing pushes the disc further out of place. However, for all but the most serious of cases, massage can be very helpful. It helps increase circulation to the area, which speeds healing and also drains the inflammation away from the slipped disc. Have a friend gently massage your entire back, not just the injured area, for best results. They can slowly increase the pressure if you feel comfortable with them doing so.
A Healthy Diet
Eating a healthy diet ensures that your body has the nutrients it needs to heal itself. Eat plenty of fruits, veggies, whole grains, and lean meats while you are recovering from your slipped disc. Also talk to your medical practitioner to see if they recommend you take a multivitamin supplement. This can help give your body the nutrients it needs to heal if your diet is not quite up to par.
For more information about back pain treatment, contact a professional.