How To Be Back Pain-Free
Acute or chronic lower back pain can often cause dull and aching pain that can radiate to the buttocks, legs, and feet. Catching the signs of lower back pain early can help prevent further damage. Patients suffering from lower back pain can employ several nonsurgical treatment options recommended by a pain management specialist to keep the pain at bay.
Moving your body
While movement may seem counterintuitive to deal with back pain, exercises approved by a physician or spine specialist can improve posture, flexibility, and strength of the lower back. Aerobic exercises can keep the lower back limber without causing any more injury.
Eating healthy
Diets high in sugar, trans fats, and processed food can contribute to a patient’s lower back pain by increasing the body’s inflammatory response. A plant-based diet is the best to avoid inflammation along with a healthy dose of omega-3 fatty acids from fish.
Reaching nirvana
Lower back pain can significantly hinder a patient’s movement and ability to complete daily activities, which can lead to depression, anxiety, and frustration. A rehabilitation psychologist can recommend mindfulness techniques such as meditation, yoga, or tai chi for relaxation.
Taking OTC medications
For acute or chronic back pain symptoms, anti-inflammatories, muscle relaxants, and other pain medications can reduce the severity of the pain. Patients should consider the drugs’ side effects and avoid chronic use of back pain medications.
Getting injections
Epidural steroid injections are a localized treatment that aims to dull and lower back pain for a short time. Steroid injections reduce inflammation and help open up the spinal canal to relieve pain.
Finding alternative solutions
Alternative treatment methods, such as acupuncture and massage, have been able to reduce back pain. Other treatment methods such as biofeedback therapy, electrical nerve stimulation, and laser therapy may also be beneficial for lower back pain.
When to see a pain management specialist
In some severe cases, no amount of nonsurgical intervention can reduce the severity of pain and discomfort. When physical therapy, lifestyle modifications, and other treatment methods have been exhausted, seeing a pain management specialist can help. Patients should also consider surgery when bladder and bowel issues appear and when balance problems arise.
