Lower back pain (LBP) is the leading cause of disabilities that stem from back injuries. LBP stems from medical and non-medical related conditions that detract from the quality of life. Expert pain centers such as McNulty Spine help manage lower back pain in Las Vegas through a blend of surgical and non-surgical treatments. Here are some expert tips to get you back in the swing of things when you can no longer cope with lower back pain.
1. Try physical therapy
Lower back pain disrupts the spine’s conventional posture. Physical therapy techniques aim to readjust the spine back to its original position and rid you of LBP. Physical therapy exercises you can try to alleviate lower back pain include:
- Stretching exercises
- Aerobic exercises
- Core strengthening exercises
The key to benefiting from physical therapy exercises is following through with your routine until you see a resolution. Additionally, you can incorporate massage into your post-exercise routine to relax the muscles and release some of that pent-up energy.
The exercises are not the same for everyone as each individual has different exercise tolerance. Consult a physical therapist for the suitable exercises to try.
2. Ice and heat therapies
Your nerves play a vital role in how your body processes pain. Inflamed nerves transmit greater pain intensity than calm nerves. Alternate between cold and heat therapies to soothe the pain-afflicted region and calm your nerves. A heated bath or a heated wrap are excellent ideas to try.
3. Maintain good posture
Sitting at your comfy couch the whole day does not put you in the clear for back pain. Prolonged sitting is one of the causatives of lower back pain. Practice good posture while sitting or avoid sitting for too long altogether. A good posture is where your back is straight, and your arms form a 90-degree angle with your torso.
4. Pain relief medication
For minimally painful LBP, doctors recommend pain relief medication. Pharmacologic treatments relieve inflammation and provide temporary relief from lower back pain. Topical pain relievers, muscle relaxants, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are pain management medications you can purchase. However, be keen on the potential side effects of the medication you choose. Generally, do not opt for steroidal medication as the primary treatment for LBP.
5. Get a good night’s sleep
Yes, sleep helps you manage back pain. Restorative sleep on a top-line foam mattress rejuvenates the body’s healing abilities to counteract pain. Sleeping in a good position for a minimum of 6 hours helps your body recharge the depleted energy in your muscles.
6. Surgery
You may need back surgery to correct medical defects that cause the pain for immense lower back pain. Back surgery is the go-to option when your body does not respond to primary physical therapy treatments. Surgery alleviates lower back pain by correcting structural defaults such as spinal stenosis and herniated disc that cause LBP.
7. Try acupuncture
You will be amazed at how the old-age Chinese back pain management technique is effective. Would you please not prick yourself with needles? Find an acupuncturist at McNulty Spine to help you.
Where to find help
Lower back pain causes significant discomfort and, in extreme cases, immobility. If you want to take charge of your lower back pain, schedule an appointment at McNulty Spine Center for effective LBP management plans. Don’t let lower back pain deny you the joys of life.
