How to treat chronic back pain

There are more options than ever before

Back pain doesn’t have to take over your life. This common type of soreness can be irritating, distracting, and quite upsetting. Fortunately, though, there are plenty of steps you can take to conquer your back pain – and you don’t have to go it alone.

There are plenty of specialists who can help you determine what strategies are right for you. After all, back pain is closely linked to the nervous system, which is one of the body’s most important parts. In fact, the brain and spinal cord are both part of the nervous system!

Want to know how you can find help to treat chronic back pain? Read below.

What causes chronic back pain?

Chronic back pain is not a ‘one size fits all’ experience. In other words, there are plenty of causes, and your pain may be the result of multiple causes interacting with each other. Some of the most common causes include:

• Age – the likelihood of developing chronic back pain increases as you grow older

• Arthritis – the spine’s cartilage can become thinner, leading to frequent soreness

• Spinal stenosis – similar to arthritis in the spine, it narrows your spinal canal, causing back pain

• Disc problems

• Pain conditions and syndromes

• Injury

Does chronic back pain need to have a specific cause?

Not necessarily. In many cases, frequent back pain may come about without being linked to a specific condition or phenomenon. Still, it is worth checking with your doctor or a spinal specialist to determine if your back pain is linked to any other issues.

How treatment approaches to chronic back pain have changed

The medical system has come a long way in understanding back pain and the appropriate methods of treating it. In the past, the world had a very simple, slim view of treating back pain: if you can’t cure it right away, do what you can to cope with it.

As more experts have looked at the problem, many have tried to come up with more creative ways of dealing with back pain. Now, specialists understand that patients don’t want to simply cope with back pain – they want to overcome it as much as possible, in a way that is liberating and proactive. Patients want to contribute to their own comfort however possible.

Now, specialists help patients practice simple exercises and stretches, and make dignified suggestions that the patient can use to alter their daily routine.

READ MORE: How custom orthotics can curb your foot and back pain

Professionals who can help you

There are more ways than ever to kick your back pain to the curb. Try talking to as many professionals as possible to ensure that you have a complete approach.

Doctor

If you experience repeated instances of back pain, it’s crucial to speak to your doctor. With their knowledge of the rest of your health status, they can help you determine what may be the cause – and, subsequently, what may be the solution.

Chiropractor

Chiropractors are professionals that specialize in back health and spinal injuries. If you have any problems in your spine, muscles, or nervous system, these specialists can help diagnose and treat your problems. Additionally, they can help determine a plan to stop your pain from getting worse and ensure that you have the tools to move forward without pain.

Physiotherapist

A physiotherapist is a specialist that can help anyone affected by injury or physical conditions – and this includes back pain. They can train you through movements, stretches, and exercises that are geared towards limiting your pain or readjusting your spine. With repeated appointments, your physiotherapist can track your progress and make recommendations along the way.

Popular treatment options for back pain

Listed below are a few of the many treatment options for chronic back pain. A specialist may recommend one or more of these to you, but your treatment may not include any of these items. After all, each person’s recovery path looks different!

Hot or cold compress

Putting hot or cold pressure on your back can help in different ways. Ice on your back can limit swelling and inflammation, and it can also decrease tissue damage.

Heat can be applied after swelling has stopped. This sensation can improve blood flow and decrease the stiffness often associated with back pain.

Core exercises

Many simple core exercises can reduce pain in your lower back, therefore improving your comfort and mobility. Ask a physiotherapist about the right exercises for your circumstance.

Cardio exercises

Many are surprised to learn that getting your heart rate up can contribute to a more comfortable back. There are plenty of cardio options that elevate your heart rate without compromising your spine’s comfort – ask a specialist which ones are right for you.

Traction or an ultrasound

These options can help relax your muscles if they are tense or tightened. Talk to your chiropractor about these options to learn more.

READ MORE: Working at home? Keep your back comfortable and healthy

Conclusion

You can fight back against back pain. Visit a specialist to learn how you can cope with pain and take proactive steps to minimize it altogether.

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