Back pain typically occurs due to the development of structural or mechanical problems in the discs, spine, tendons, ligaments, or muscles in the back. It is an extremely common condition that causes people to miss work or seek medical help. Back pain has several causes and can take different forms, from a constant dull ache to a sudden sharp or throbbing pain. Most times, Glendale back pain gets better within a few days or weeks of simple home treatment, and surgery is rarely needed. Effective lower back trigger point release of a few specific muscles could also be the missing link between you and a pain-free lower back. What is more, the following steps can help you prevent back pain and protect your spine.
Watch your weight
Being overweight, especially in your midsection, shifts your center of gravity and strains your lower back, making back pain worse. You relieve the strain off your lower back when you lose extra weight, alleviating back pain. Healthcare providers recommend staying within 10 pounds of your ideal weight; this may help control back pain. Eating right is one of the ways that can help you lose extra pounds and stay at your ideal weight. Remember that weight loss does not happen overnight; it requires effort, consistency, and patience.
Make exercise part of your routine.
If you have been sidelined by a sore back, you might think limiting rest is the best way to get relief. While a day or two of rest may help, more may worsen the pain. Without physical activity, your muscles become stiff and more prone to injury, even with simple movements such as lifting shopping bags. Exercises such as yoga and tai chi help you learn proper posture and improve balance, flexibility, and strength. If you need to know what exercises are good for your back, you can ask your doctor or health club trainer. Exercising also helps you keep your weight down.
Quit smoking
Smoking is well known to increase your risk of heart disease and cancers such as lung and colon cancers, but most people do not realize that smoking can cause chronic back pain and worsen existing back pain. It is unclear how smoking affects back health, but one possibility is that it constricts blood vessels, restricting the flow of nutrients and oxygen-containing blood to the spinal discs. As a result, the spine becomes more susceptible to injury and slower healing. Additionally, smoking interferes with the effectiveness of medications used to relieve back pain.
Maintain good posture
Back pain can be caused by everyday activities like sitting at your computer for seven to eight hours or slouching over your phone when texting. If your work involves working long hours at your computer, break up the long period with stretching exercises. But if you are stuck at your desk, you can do simple feet exercises or bend your knee as if you are matching. Take a break at least each hour to stretch and walk around; this will help take the pressure off your back. You also want to ensure that you work at an ergonomically correct workstation, whether at the office or home. Practicing good posture helps you maintain the natural curves of your back and help keep it strong.
If you have a sore back, request an appointment with your doctor at HAAS Spine & Orthopaedics for treatment to improve your quality of life.
