Chiropractor Toms River Nj | The Prevention And Treatment Of Back Pain
Back pain is perhaps the number one reason for people to miss work and social engagements
. All too often injuries which result back pain could have been prevented with a little bit of planning and forethought. The injuries that weren't preventable are often easily treated with non-drug and non-surgical methods.Preventing Back Pain-
Given the fact that most instances of back pain are the result of a preventable injury, it is important to know how to prevent them. Often times the pain results from lifting an object that is too heavy or awkward either by yourself or incorrectly. The correct way to lift is with your legs, not your back. Many people automatically lift using their backs for leverage and end up getting hurt. Also be sure to have a partner if the object is too heavy or awkward to be lifted comfortably by only one person.
Being aware of your surroundings is also an important step to keeping back pain at bay. All too often a slip on stairs or an icy sidewalk could be prevented by paying close attention and being mindful of the environment. This is important if walking in any type of slippery place such as leaf covered sidewalks or poolside in the summer.
These tips are, of course, only a couple of suggestions to help prevent back pain in your everyday life.
Treating Your Back Pain-
If the back pain is minor, there are several options at your disposal. While many people will opt for over-the-counter or prescription medications to deal with the pain, this is not necessary and can easily be avoided.
Perhaps the best approach to alleviating back pain is to rest your back for several days. Staying in bed, as quiet and as still as possible is often all a back needs to recover from minor pain and discomfort. However, this particular treatment should only be used for a couple of days. If the pain is not helped in this amount of time, there is often something else wrong.
Another tried and true method is to alternate between warm and cold compresses placed directly on the injured area. The temperature changes will allow the blood flow to the area to be increased and decreased as well as permitting the muscle to relax. This combination is also highly effective as a means of back pain relief.
When to Seek Medical Advice-
If your back pain does not subside within a couple of days of taking it easy, it may be time to make an appointment with your doctor. More than likely the doctor will want to run a few routine tests to be sure there is nothing seriously wrong with your spine, including the discs. Once this is ruled out, they may offer to write you a prescription for some pain reliever. After a few days of dealing with the pain, you may decide to give in and take it.
However, if you do choose to turn down the stronger medication, it may be in your best interest to speak with your doctor about a referral to a chiropractic doctor. A chiropractor will be able to help with your back pain by showing specific exorcises and, if necessary, a spinal realignment to help with the pain.
by: Chris Tomshack