Low back pain is a common complaint for many people and when the problem turns chronic, it can lead to disability. In the earlier stages of back pain, there are ways you can reduce the pain or at least prevent exacerbation of the problem.
Be Mindful Of Your Posture
Many cases of low back pain can be attributed to poor posture, especially if you sit at a desk all day and/or use electronic devices. Most importantly, you need a chair that is conducive to better posture. Opt for a mid-back chair. Since your height and torso length will greatly affect the comfort level of a chair, it is often necessary to try out a chair in person before making a purchase. You want a chair with a back high enough to lend support, but not one with a high back that will do all the work. When you are sitting, sit up straight and make sure your lumbar spine has a slight arch, which is normal posture. Avoid leaning back in the seat or hunching forward while writing or working at the computer. If necessary, you might need risers for your monitor so it can remain at eye-level when you are sitting in the appropriate position.
Use Back Support
In addition to having the right chair, adding back support in different places around your home or office can help. You might need a different form of back support depending on whether you are sitting on the couch versus the car. Most back supports mimic the natural arch of your lower back and can remind you to sit correctly, while the device helps support your lower back. These devices are usually made of foam, which can allow the back support to mold slightly to your body, making it more comfortable. If you choose one made from memory foam, this is better left indoors. When memory foam is in a colder environment, it can become uncomfortably firm until your body heat makes it more malleable.
Rule Out Other Causes
It is important to rule out different underlying causes of back pain. Ideally, you would visit your doctor for assistance. It is important to be able to identify the exact location of the pain and any additional symptoms, like being able to describe the pain and if you experience shooting, burning, or tingling sensations. Low back pain is easy to misdiagnose when the real culprit can be sacroiliac pain. As part of ruling out different causes, your doctor may want to perform x-rays to look for evidence of herniated discs or any type of mass growing near your back. Referral to a chiropractor and/or physical therapist can be helpful for low back or sacroiliac pain, especially when the problem is poor posture or pain stemming from abnormal biomechanics of the skeletal system.
Working on your posture should be the first step in eliminating back pain. Paying attention to bad habits that you have developed over the years can often correct problems when they are in the early stages.
Share29 December 2017
After struggling with months and months with back pain, I could tell that things weren't getting any better with my DIY methods. I was tired of having trouble every time I needed to move, so I decided to start working with a chiropractor. When I arrived, the doctor worked really hard to diagnose my condition, and then he talked with me about treatments--letting me decide how to proceed. It made me feel really great about working with him, and within a few treatments my back was feeling a lot better. This blog is all about improving your back pain by talking with the right professionals.
