- Back Pain Treatment
- Right Back Pain Therapy
- Lower Back Pain Relief Treatment
- Lower Back Pain Therapy
- Lower Back Pain Treatment
- Treatment For Back Pain
- Treatment For Lower Back Pain
- Medication For Back Pain
- Natural Treatment For Back Pain
- Understanding Of Treatment
The Various Natural Treatments Or Alternative Therapies For Back Pain
Did you know that back pain is 'The greatest single cause for absenteeism in the U.S'? Back pain or "dorsalgia," refers to a wide-range of painful conditions experienced in the back. In most cases, the pain originates from the muscles, bones, joints, nerves, or other areas in the spine. In due course the pain radiates into other areas like the neck, arm, hand, leg or foot. In recent years, a host of natural treatments or alternative therapies for back pain have been developed, many of which have successfully eliminated the need for drugs or surgical intervention.
Rest
Rest is one of the most effective natural treatments for back pain and should begin soon after the onset of pain. A majority of cases respond well to rest, but it is also advised that one should try to resume normal activities as soon as possible, as prolonged period of rest may actually cause muscular deconditioning and loss of calcium, resulting in more damage to the affected area. Sleeping on the back with the knees supported by a pillow or sleeping on one side with a pillow wedged between the knees are considered ideal resting positions for people suffering from back pain.
Exercise
One of the best alternative therapies for back pain is exercise. Specific back exercises prescribed by the physician speed up recovery by improving muscle flexibility, tone, and strength and also help to lubricate dehydrated discs. Exercises also help to alleviate pain by helping the brain to release endorphins, which are natural pain relievers. Exercises including aerobics, walking, stationary bicycle as well as hydro therapy or water aerobics are commonly recommended.
TENS
A very popular method of alternative therapy for back pain treatment is TENS or Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation. In this system, weak electrical impulses are applied on the affected area to block pain receptors from reaching the brain and to stimulate the production of endorphins.
Yoga
One other alternative system of treatment, also proven to be an effective means of treating back pain, is Yoga - an ancient philosophical system which originated in India. Emerging as one of the most popular complimentary treatments to improve general health, yoga enhances muscle strength and flexibility, and also eases chronic back pain. However, it is extremely important to seek advice from a qualified instructor on how to go about it.
Other Therapies
Application of an ice pack or heat to the affected area has long been regarded as an effective means of relieving pain. At the onset of pain, cold packs are recommended, followed by hot packs after a couple of days. Menthol, eucalyptus, or camphor balms, when applied gently to the painful areas, may soothe, lessen inflammation, and allow the patient to exercise.
Massage therapy, acupuncture, and moist heat therapy like hot bath or whirlpool are also used to relieve pain and spasm, and improve circulation and mobility. An equally good alternative therapy for back pain is chiropractic. Of late, a large number of patients with pain in the lower back have turned to this option, which involves manipulating or adjusting the spine to correct spinal joint restrictions, restore joint mobility, and treat back injuries.