Back pain is frustrating and can stop you dead in your tracks. Don’t let it get you down, however. It’s usually not a big deal and is easily overcome with good lifting and exercise habits and simple cures that anyone can manage.
How do I know if have back pain?
- Ache or stiffness along the spine
- Sharp, localized pain in the back after lifting or engaging in strenuous activity
- Chronic ache after standing or sitting for long periods of time.
- Inability to stand without spasms.
Call your doctor immediately if:
- You feel numbness, tingling or weakness in your limbs.
- Pain extends down the back of your leg.
- Pain worsens when you cough of bend forward.
- Pain comes with fever, burning during urinating, or strong smelling urine.
- You have bowel or bladder control problems.
How can I prevent a backache?
- Use a cushion in your car to support the small of your back.
- Lift with your knees.
- Swimming is the best way to work out if you have chronic back pain.
- Hold objects close to your body when carrying them.
- Stay alert when doing activities.
- Maintain a healthy weight.
How can I treat back pain?
- Within 24 hours of injury, ice it. After that, use heating pads or warm showers to help soothe the muscles.
- Get lots of sleep on your side with your knees flexed and a pillow between them to keep your spine curved naturally.
- Look into massage and relaxation techniques!
- Chamomile tea helps to relax tense muscles, drink a cup before bed!
- Try a bath with 2 cups of epsom salts. They help reduce swelling.
- Ginger root is an anti-inflammatory and will help to reduce pain. Make it into a tea, sweeten with honey and drink.
