How to Manage Back Pain at Home

Back pain is one of the most common problems that many people have to deal with. The causes of back pain are varied and can range from mild conditions that get better on their own to severe cases where you may require surgery. If you think your pain is severe enough for a doctor’s visit, make an appointment right away. If you’re not sure whether it’s serious, try some of the home remedies below.

Back pain commonly occurs when people lift heavy objects or twist them while lifting. Many times, home remedies are enough to relieve back pain that is mild or moderate. For severe cases of back pain, you should see a specialist for back pain in Houston. If you are experiencing back pain, you can relieve your symptoms at home. Below are some tips.

• Stay Active

The best way to deal with back pain is to move around, even if that means taking a short walk every hour. If you are confined to bed rest for any period, your pain will likely become worse. By forcing yourself to get up and move around, you exercise the muscles in your back which helps them heal. However, be sure to avoid any strenuous activities, especially those that involve a great deal of twisting and bending.

• Stretching Exercises

If you are having trouble stretching your back, it is best to ask your doctor or a professional in Houston before attempting anything yourself. If you have been advised to stretch your back by a medical professional, make sure you stretch slowly and gradually. It would help if you also were careful not to overdo it when stretching your back. If your pain gets worse when you are doing these exercises, stop immediately.

• Review Your Ergonomics

Whether you work at home or in an office, ergonomics is essential. Ensure you do not place unnecessary stress on your back when working by making sure your chair and desk are appropriately positioned. Make sure you do not slouch while sitting or working. By keeping your back straight, you avoid putting strain on it, which can exacerbate any existing issues causing pain.

• Do Not Lift Heavy Objects

Again, it’s crucial to avoid lifting heavy objects. If you must lift something with your back, make sure you do so very slowly. If possible, recruit someone else to help you lift the object rather than doing it yourself. Lifting heavy objects puts unnecessary strain on your back, which could hurt for weeks or even months afterward.

• Quit Smoking

Smoking is a terrible habit for anyone, especially for people who suffer from back pain. Nicotine does not cause back pain, but it can make the condition worse in many ways. Smoking constricts the blood vessels, which makes any existing conditions worse too. It also decreases your lung capacity, which means you will struggle to take in enough oxygen.

In summary, back pain is a common condition affecting millions of people across the world. You can get rid of mild back pain at home by staying active, engaging in stretching exercises, reviewing your ergonomics, and avoiding heavy lifting objects. Quitting smoking also helps.