How To Manage Your Back Pain

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What is Back Pain?

• Short-term, severe pain in the back.
• Indicates that the body is under pressure.

Causes Of Back Pain

Problems in:

• Bones and ligaments of the spine.
• Nerves and muscles in the back.

What Are The Triggers Of Back Pain?

• Poor posture;
• Unsuitable footwear;
• Inappropriate walking habits;
• Tense muscles;
• Prolonged sitting;
• Sleeping on soft beds;
• Prostate, bladder, or kidney conditions;
• Pregnancy;
• Constipation; and
• Anxiety.

Back Pain First Aid

• Rest in a comfy position;
• Put on ice on the affected region;
• Sedatives or relaxants can be used;
• Avoid exercises that will cause strain; and
• Try not to sleep on a soft mattress.

Treatment For Back Pain

• Anti-inflammatory medications.
• Reflexology with hot or cold packs.

  

• Traction.
• Regular simple workouts.
• Visit an Orthopedician if:
  a. Discomfort continues.
  b. Trouble in passing urine.
  c. Unresponsiveness or pain in legs or toes.

Prevention Of Back Pain

• Maintain a good posture;
• Do not smoke;
• Don’t over-strain the body;
• Reduce stress/ pressure;
• Take breaks while at work;
• Sit straight with your lower back supported;
• Wear comfy low-heeled shoes; and
• Do stretching movements.

Ice Therapy

Muscle strain is the main cause of back pain.

Putting an ice pack on the region shortly after the occurrence of pain (within 2 days) can assist in the following ways:

• Reduces swelling, which often adds to the pain;
• Deadens the soft tissues, acting as a painkiller;
• Slows the nerve impulses, which interrupts pain signals sent to the brain;
• Reduces tissue damage; and
• Helps with natural healing by pushing blood and nutrients to the affected region when the ice is removed.

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