Denver Back Pain

 

Nearly everyone suffers back pain. We may crawl, scream, cry and pray it ends. It’s especially common if we’re overweight, out of shape, work at a computer, or smoke.

Fortunately there is a lot we can do to help ourselves even with serious low back pain.

- Chill Out!

For back pain that started recently and feels “sharp” or “stabbing” use ice. Heating pads may feel good but will make your back worse in the long run. Ice helps reduce the swelling of serious back pain from sports injuries, over-use, recent slips and falls, and lifting accidents.

Place an ice pack on your back while lying face down for 5-20 minutes. Use a wet towel between the ice pack and your skin. Never apply ice directly to the skin, as it can blister or “burn.” This can be done up to 3 times a day.

- Later On…

As the pain becomes “achy” or “stiff”, stop using ice and switch to heat. Soaking in a hot shower or bath is best. Allow the water to loosen the muscles as you reach to touch your toes. Don’t force anything. Gently stretch as far as you can without pain.

- Avoid Sleeping on Your Stomach

Most mattresses are too soft or worn out. Sleeping on your belly, face down all night causes problems with the spine and can aggravate low back pain.

Sleep on your side or on your back with a quality mattress. Placing a small pillow between your knees helps keep the hips in line with the spine, especially for women.

It’s desirable to change positions throughout the night while resting. Don’t just sleep on your back or side, move about.

- Avoid Sleeping With Two Neck Pillows

Sleeping with two pillows creates tension on the delicate nerves deep in the spine. Use one small firm pillow. The ones with that have a curve to cradle the neck are best. Ask your chiropractor what would be best.

- Don’t Sit!

If you must sit, avoid sitting bolt upright. Recline your car seat backward to take pressure off your spine. Sitting “straight”, as your grade school teacher recommended is not a good idea. Sitting increases pressure deep in the spine. Sitting up straight irritates the discs between the back bones, damaging the spine over time. While you’re healing, avoid sitting. Stand, walk, lie down and avoid chairs. When you sit use a firm cushion to support your back. Avoid soft couches and overstuffed chairs as they don’t provide the support sore backs need.

- When to See a Doctor

Of course if your back is getting worse get professional help! There is no benefit to suffering. It’s needless and potentially dangerous. Sharp back pain that radiates numbness or tingling to the legs is pain that requires care from a doctor. Doctors of chiropractic are most qualified to help serious back pain.

Drugs have side effects and surgery is dangerous. A chiropractor can help relieve your back pain, naturally.

 

Steven Visentin is a Denver Chiropractor who for over thirty years has helped thousands and thousands get well and stay healthy naturally.  www.carechirpractic.com