Back discomfort is one of the most common ailments, and one which leaves many sufferers at a loss on how to treat it. The information below gives you ways to treat and alleviate your back pain. You do not have to spend a ton of cash or rely on medications that have addictive tendencies, or effect your mind or body negatively when you apply these tips.
Very soft mattresses can increase back discomfort. Most people would agree that a mattress which is too soft is not helpful for a back. A firm mattress is preferred, but mattresses that are too firm can be a source of back discomfort too. It may be necessary for you to trek around to a number of mattress stores and sample their wares before you find the mattress of your dreams.
To find out how severe your back injury is and avoid making it worse, it is a good idea to take it easy for a couple of days after the onset of the pain. If the pain ends quickly, it was probably just a minor injury. If you are still experiencing pain, or if it gets worse, you should call your doctor for further guidance on a remedy to relieve the pain. Having to rest over two days can avoid curing the issue and can actually make it worse since the supporting muscles can atrophy.
Begin with the basics when treating your back pain. Often, resting can help milder cases because it gives the muscles a rest. Taking an anti-inflammatory medication such as naproxen sodium, ibuprofen or acetaminophen will make you more comfortable while your muscles are recovering. Older solutions that have stood through the test of time will work wonders as well, like the application of hot and cool cloths to the suffering area.
A number of medications are available both by prescription and over-the-counter to treat back discomfort. Your doctor should be consulted before a final decision on any medication is made. Sometimes all you need is a small dose of an over-the-counter pain killer in order to stop your back hurting. In more severe cases, however, stronger prescription painkillers may be required.
If you are breastfeeding, do it in a chair rather than a couch. Positioning is very important while breastfeeding to avoid suffering from back pain. You can also put a pillow or couch cushion behind your back to keep it straight, but still comfortable while you feed your baby.
Be aware of the position that you sleep in. While a prone sleeping position may not be your favorite option, it can help you to avoid back discomfort. For added relief, you may place a heating pad under your body. Sleeping face down is never a good idea.
Alternate cold and hot for back discomfort relief. Ice helps by reducing both inflammation and pain. Heat can help soothe the muscles and allows the blood to flow better throughout the body, aiding in healing. For heat, you can use an electric blanket, warm bath or a heating pad, just make sure you don’t fall asleep while using these methods.
Back pain affects a wide variety of people, and it is often aggravated by heavy lifting. Always take precautions and use proper procedures when lifting a heavy or large abject.
Sleeping on your stomach with a large belly (especially with a baby in it) is not a good option, and sleeping on your back puts too much strain on it. Sleep on your side, it helps to evenly distribute your weight.
If you have been unable to control your back pain, the single best thing that you can do for yourself is to know when it’s time to seek help. Don’t feel bad if you need to ask for assistance in lifting heavy items or doing chores that can make back pain worsen, such as vacuuming. There is no point in hurting yourself by more by trying to do too much.
Back pain is more prevalent than you may imagine. You should now be able to treat back discomfort, without medications and frequent doctor visits.