Persistent back pain can be debilitating and impact your daily life in Tampa. The reasons for back pain are wide-ranging, from poor posture and tension to injuries and underlying conditions. While it’s a good idea to see your doctor if you’re experiencing back pain, there are often many steps you can take to bring some relief at home.
Here are five ways you could relieve back pain.
1. Keep Moving
When we’re experiencing pain, there is often a strong temptation to lie down and rest. However, this isn’t always the best idea for back pain, and the longer you stay still, the worse the pain may become. Unless your doctor has recommended rest for a specific reason, maintain a schedule of regular movement and walking. Go outside for a short walk or do some gentle stretching at home.
2. Therapy
Therapies, such as massage, can make a huge difference to people living with persistent back pain. When back pain has been caused as a result of tension or poor posture, massage can often help to provide some relief. Consider regular massage sessions or other therapies, such as Rolfing. This can help to address some of the structural problems in your body that are leading to persistent back pain.
3. Improved Posture
Many structural problems with the back, neck, and shoulders are caused by poor posture. If you spend a lot of time sitting down at a computer or desk, you might not even realize how much you are hunching or tensing your upper body. Taking steps to be more mindful of your posture and make improvements can help to relieve back pain and other related aches. Sit upright with your feet on the floor and your back supported by a good chair.
4. Better Sleep
A lack of sleep can have severe impacts on your body and mind over time, including causing aches and pains or preventing your body from fully recovering. The environment you are sleeping in can also have a significant impact on back pain. A poor-quality or old bed can contribute to persistent back pain, and sleeping in an uncomfortable or awkward position can lead to further aches and pains too. If you’re experiencing pain after waking up the next morning, try placing a pillow or blanket between your knees and sleeping on your left side.
5. Hot and Cold
Applying hot and cold packs to the affected area can help to relieve back pain. If your back is aching because of an injury that has caused inflammation, ice packs can be the perfect way to help reduce swelling and relieve pain. Heat packs can reduce muscle tension and relieve many other forms of back pain.
Finding the Solution for Your Back Pain
Everybody is different, and the solution for back pain will look different for each individual. Rolfing is a service provided by Williams Rolfing in Tampa and is one of the therapies that could provide long-term relief from back pain.
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