Alternatives to relieve back pain

Back pain is a condition that affects most people. This back pain can be caused by multiple factors: changes in our lifestyles, stress, or lack of activity. When back pain appears, it is necessary to take it seriously as soon as possible to prevent it from turning into chronic pain.

But then, how to manage pain so that it does not encroach on everyday life?

Transient crisis or chronic pain… An evolutionary evil that must be taken seriously

A true pillar of our spine, the back is often put to the test: carrying a heavy load, bad posture, or a great moment of stress, we are all exposed to temporary back pain at first but chronic when these episodes are repeated over time.

Back pain can appear in several forms: sciatica, low back pain, lumbago, or scoliosis. These ailments do not induce the same pain but they have the common point of being very painful and uncomfortable. The evolution of this pain can gradually impact our daily lives. Swinging, burning, muscle contraction, total blockage of movement… It is therefore essential to consider alternatives to manage this painful area according to its level of intensity.

What are the stages of evolution?

  • Acute low back pain lasts less than 6 weeks A third of people face recurrences.
  • Subacute low back pain lasts between 6 weeks and 3 months The pain becomes more intense. It generates anxiety or even a depressive state and prevents the accomplishment of certain daily tasks or incapacity for work.
  • Chronic low back pain lasts more than 3 months It affects nearly 5% of those affected and can be very disabling.

What therapeutic solutions should be considered in the face of this pain, which can be progressive?

When back pain is episodic, it is important to take the lead by changing your daily habits so that this pain does not become chronic and impacts your quality of life. As a first intention, this will make it possible to avoid as much as possible to resort to drug treatment.

Adopting a healthy lifestyle is first and foremost the best advice to give.

  • Having a healthy diet, staying hydrated regularly, and getting enough sleep are preferred.
  • It is also important to adopt an adapted posture so as not to overuse our backs. Standing up straight, avoiding heavy loads, or optimizing your workspace when you are in front of a screen is essential.
  • Practicing regular physical activity to stretch and tone the muscles of our back in order to strengthen it is also recommended.

If despite these different daily actions, the back pain has set in, leading to chronic pain, it is then necessary to use the medication in addition to relief care. The objective is to bring an action targeted at the pain but also at the cause.

  • Muscle relaxants will act on the cause
    • Direct action muscle relaxants will help relax muscles
  • Analgesics and anti-inflammatories will act directly on the pain according to its level of intensity
    • Analgesics will bring a calming action
    • AIS/NSAIDs provide anti-inflammatory action

It is essential to respect the recommended doses to avoid any risk of overdose.

Other alternatives are possible to complement a possible treatment. Alternative medicine (acupuncture) or relaxing massages can relieve the painful area. Wearing a lumbar belt can also provide support and thus facilitate good posture. Do not forget, when the crisis passes, it is essential to practice physical activity so as not to weaken the muscles of your back. They are great allies to help him maintain himself properly and face our daily lives.

Image Credit: Photo by Kindel Media from pexels.com

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