The Secret to Chronic Back Pain Relief: 5 Proven Treatments
Published May 9, 2023.
With around 16 million adults experiencing chronic back pain, this condition is one of the leading causes of disability worldwide. Chronic back pain can result from various factors, including age and previous injury, but also seemingly unrelated everyday issues like constipation or acid reflux.
Given how common chronic back pain is, it's important to find effective methods to treat the symptoms and relieve the pain. Luckily, there are various pain management methods you can try if you're affected by chronic back pain.
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1. Physiotherapy Exercises
Exercise in general can provide pain relief by stimulating the release of endorphins into the bloodstream. What's more, physiotherapy exercises particularly targeted at lower back pain relief can help accelerate the healing process by engaging the specific area the right way. Apart from common workouts like swimming, physiotherapy exercises for managing chronic back pain can include:
- Aerobic exercises
- Stretching exercises
- Exercises for strengthening the back
- Yoga
- Aquatic therapy
Ideally, your exercise regimen should include a combination of stretching and strengthening exercises. While the stretching exercises improve flexibility and range of motion in the spine and surrounding muscles, the strengthening exercises target the abdominals, back muscles, and leg muscles, all of which support the back.
» Try these physiotherapy exercises for lower back pain
2. Massage Treatment
Massage therapy is helpful for those with chronic back pain, as it involves manipulating the soft tissues of the body to help alleviate pain, reduce stress, and promote relaxation. It boosts circulation and can help improve flexibility and range of motion in the back while stimulating the release of endorphins for more effective pain relief.
Depending on the exact location and nature of your chronic back pain, your massage therapist may try various massage techniques to improve your condition, including deep tissue massage, Swedish massage, and trigger point therapy. However, remember that improperly administered massage can exacerbate your back pain instead of relieve it, so it's important to always turn to a professional to perform the technique for the best results.
3. Chiropractic Care
Chiropractic treatment focuses on treating and preventing musculoskeletal disorders, particularly those related to the spine. It involves the use of various techniques, including spinal manipulation, soft-tissue therapy, electrical stimulation, and instrument-assisted therapy.
Chiropractic care provides a non-invasive way to manage chronic back pain because it improves spinal alignment and relieves pressure on the nerves. It also reduces muscle tension, promotes healing, and improves range of motion. However, despite its proven effectiveness, it may not be ideal for everyone. So, it's important to consult your healthcare provider to determine if it's a safe option for your back pain.
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4. Heat Therapy
Heat therapy refers to applying heat to the affected area of the back to relieve muscle tension and promote healing by boosting relaxation, reducing inflammation, and stimulating circulation. Heat therapy can also improve flexibility in the back, which can reduce stiffness and contribute to back pain relief.
You can apply heat therapy using different aids, including:
- Hot water bottles
- Heating pads
- Infrared lamps
- Warm shower or bath
- Hot towel
Heat therapy can be used freely, except if you have an open wound, reduced sensation, suspected malignancy, or any cardiovascular diseases.
5. Alternative Methods
Alternative therapy methods like acupuncture, mindfulness and meditation, cognitive behavioural therapy, biofeedback, and herbal remedies may also be used to treat chronic back pain by improving your overall well-being. These methods can indirectly promote healing of the back by helping reduce stress, improve sleep, and promote relaxation.
While they can be very effective, alternative therapy methods shouldn't be serve as a substitute for other treatments. Instead, you should combine them with other leading treatment methods like physiotherapy to ensure maximum effectiveness.
» Want more alternatives? Adjust your sleeping habits to relieve lower back pain
Say Goodbye to Chronic Back Pain
Although chronic back pain is a common condition that can interfere with your everyday activities, there are many treatment options you can try, including physiotherapy, chiropractic care, heat therapy, and alternative therapy.
However, before choosing your preferred treatment method, it's crucial to seek professional help to ensure your treatment is tailored to your specific needs and as effective as possible.
