Good Healthcare Requires Treatment of Your Mind, Body, and Soul

Bothered By Constant Back Pain? Making These Changes Could Help

30 December 2016 by Hugh Larson

The number of Americans who suffer from back pain is alarming. In fact, according to the American Chiropractic Association, back pain is now expected to affect approximately 80% of the population at some point in their lifetime. Back pain, especially chronic types of back pain, cause people to miss work and forego activities that improve physical and emotional health. In addition, this type of constant pain can lead to substance abuse, create unnecessary stress on families and relationships, and make it difficult to obtain suitable employment. While injuries and accidents cause a significant number of back pain cases and require surgical options to recover, some back pain sufferers may see reduced levels of pain simply by making one or more of these proactive changes. 

Lose weight to reduce back strain

Carrying even a few pounds of extra weight can aggravate spinal issues and worsen back pain. Not only do the extra pounds create more stress on the muscles and bones, but they can also cause you to move about less, or sit, move, or stand differently, further exacerbating the problem. To lose the excess weight, consider keeping a food diary for a week or two to help you figure out what foods you should cut out. Instead of counting calories, try making simple changes such as eliminating any problem foods completely, such as soda, sugar, or bread. 

Strengthen the muscles that help to support your spine

Another good way to reduce back pain levels is by strengthening the muscles that work to support your spine. Remember to start any exercise plan very slowly, giving your muscles time to stretch and become stronger without causing more pain. In addition, make sure that you discuss the exercises you plan to do with your doctor or chiropractor before beginning. 

Practice better posture when sitting and standing

Poor posture can cause back pain or worsen existing pain levels. Posture issues are particularly important for those who must sit or stand for hours each day. To avoid this type of back pain, take time to learn and practice good posture when sitting, standing, and driving. If you work from a home or business office, it can also help to make sure that the chairs, desks, and computers you use are designed to be ergonomic and supportive and to change positions or get up and move around for a few minutes every hour. 

Additionally, remember to also consider your shoes and make sure that you are choosing footwear that will not place additional strain on your spine or the muscles that support it. Do this by avoiding very flat, very high, or very narrow heels and instead choose a wider, more supportive heel, such as those found on quality walking shoes. In some cases, shoe inserts can also be helpful in relieving or reducing some types of back pain. 

Opt for the use of a spinal decompression service

Spinal compression, a factor in many cases of back pain, can be caused by injuries, accidents, aging, and many other issues. As the compression worsens, increasing amounts of pressure is placed on the bones of the spine and the nerves and tissues around them. When the compression worsens to the point where it impacts and places pressure on a nerve, patients can experience symptoms such as excruciating pain, loss of sensation, loss of bladder or bowel control, and in some cases, loss of movement and other serious mobility issues.

If your back pain is caused by this type of spinal compression, it may be helpful to utilize a spinal decompression service to help stop or reverse the compression. To find out more about spinal decompression and determine if you are a candidate for it, contact your medical care provider or chiropractor and ask for more information about this helpful procedure. 

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