Does your lower back ever hurt? Is it hurting right now?
If so, you’re certainly not alone. The mouthful that is the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Strokes says that 80 percent of adults have to deal with this at least once in their lives. If this isn’t you yet, it probably will be at one point (sorry!), so now’s the time to learn a bit about it and what you can do.
What causes lower back pain?
Lower back pain, whether it’s acute or chronic (lasts more than three months), can be caused by many factors, including spine ligament, muscle or bone sprain. It can also come from more serious issues, such as cancer or problems with the spine’s structure. In some cases, this condition comes from a herniated disk in the spine.
What can you do?
Unfortunately, there’s no magic cure-all for lower back pain. What will help you will depend largely on the cause of your pain, so it’s important to try to identify that first. Lifting objects properly, having good posture and doing exercises that tone the back can go a long way for many people suffering from lower back pain and aches.
The conventional treatment for this type of pain is usually medications to reduce inflammation and over-the-counter pain relievers for the discomfort. In some more severe cases, prescription drugs are used. A more serious lower back problem might require physical therapy, surgery or both.
There are other, less conventional methods you can use to treat your low back pain. A relaxation technique, such as meditation, can help some people, and therapeutic yoga can help you ease muscle tension, promote flexibility and strengthen your back.
Exercise, as long as your form is correct and you don’t overdo it, is always good, and both aerobic and strength training can help boost your back. There’s also chiropractic care, acupuncture and therapeutic massage to consider. All three have been shown to help ease pain in numerous studies conducted over the years. To find a qualified massage therapist in your area, visit the official website of the American Massage Therapy Association.
If you have low back pain, you don’t have to just sit there and take it or pop another Advil and hope it all goes away. Take action now so you can start living a life where you are free of pain and feel better than ever!