If you have back discomfort, you know how miserable it can make you feel. Chronic back pain may make you unable to work or participate in your favorite pastimes. Huntington back pain might also result in disability if not taken care of in good time.
Fortunately, there are several at-home treatments for back pain, many of which are easy to use, affordable, and don’t need a doctor’s prescription. Here are home remedies for back pain.
- Use heat and cold treatments
Back pain can be effectively relieved by applying heat or ice. Ice packs might be helpful if your back discomfort results from an injury. An ice pack is intended to reduce discomfort by numbing sudden, severe back pain. The pack soothes your back’s irritated tissues.
Your stiffness or sore muscles are relieved with a heating pad. Be cautious about checking the heating pad’s temperature before using it on your back. Choose a setting where you will feel comfortable. Don’t let your skin burn, please. You may always use a hot water bottle or a heated towel if a heating pad is not accessible.
- Stop smoking
Smoking can lead to a weakened spine and back muscles because it reduces blood flow and stops tissues throughout the body from receiving oxygen and nutrients. This may result in chronic back pain.
When you are ready to stop smoking, consult a doctor about quitting aids like nicotine gum or patches, prescription drugs, or gum with a nicotine patch. Also, consider a nicotine cessation program, which has been proven to assist patients in quitting smoking permanently when used in conjunction with medicine.
- Avoid wearing heels
Although stilettos, pumps, and high-heeled sandals are stylish, they can throw the hips, lower back, and spine out of place, which causes back pain and overused muscles. Over time, even heels with platforms or blocks can be detrimental to your back.
Avoid wearing your shoes for extended periods if you are unwilling to part with them. To lessen the strain on your hips and spine, you might also pick shoes with lower heels, stay away from pointed-toed footwear that forces your feet into an abnormal posture and use inserts made of gel or padding.
- Maintain a healthy weight
Nearly 40% of Americans are deemed obese, while more than 70% of the population is overweight. Having excess weight puts additional strain on your spine and back muscles.
Although losing weight might be challenging, it can help you manage your back pain, stop it from worsening, and even help you avoid surgery or using painkillers. Make an appointment with your doctor if you need assistance with weight loss.
- Reduce your stress
Long-term excessive stress can negatively affect your health in many ways, including your back. Stress can affect your breathing which might lead to back pain and tightness. Furthermore, it is normal for people to become less active under pressure. Unfortunately, being active is what you need at these times.
Consider gradually changing your habits to reduce stress and the chance of suffering from pain due to stress. You can reduce stress by eating better meals, meditating, doing yoga, and spending time with your loved ones.
Call Pain Management 360 to book your appointment for back pain treatment.
