Back pain can be more than just horrible— it can be so painful that it brings every aspect of your life to a halt. When we experience back pain we can’t sleep well, we can’t focus, and it often puts us in a sour mood.
Regardless of the cause of your back pain, the fact still remains the same— no one wants a back ache. The good news is that there are ways to ease your back pain and make your way towards recovery. Here are some of the best recommendations for relieving your back pain.
Apply Heat
Applying heat is one of the best things that you can do for your back pain. If you have a bathtub in your bathroom, then make a hot bath and soak. The heat will soothe the swelling, and loosen any tightened muscles and knots.
Just make sure that you don’t burn yourself. Use a reasonable amount of heat for 15 to 20 minutes at a time and stay consistent with it. Although ice is also considered to be effective, you may find that heat it’s more soothing, particularly during colder months.
Stretch
Stretching is one of the best things you can do for your body when you’re feeling pain. Your muscles contract and tighten when you get an injury, so stretching can help loosen everything up and get you back to a pain-free place.
There are many different stretches that you can try, from lifting your hands towards the ceiling and slowly bending down, to laying on your back and twisting your knees from one side to the other. You may even want to consider something like yoga for long-term relief.
Lose Weight
Keeping a healthy weight is an essential part of maintaining a healthy back. Your lower back is the foundation of your center of gravity, so if you’re putting too much pressure on it, eventually it will crumble. It’s important to stay within a healthy weight range not only for your back, but also for the sake of your blood pressure and cardiovascular health.
If you’re not sure what your healthy weight range is, it’s a good idea to consult with your doctor. They’ll be able to help guide you toward how to lose weight if need be.
Get Massages
Massages are incredibly enjoyable and can be exactly what you need to soothe your aches and pains while also keeping you calm and relaxed. Massaging lengthens your muscles and releases tightness that is causing your discomfort. Treat yourself to one whenever you can, and you’ll significantly thank yourself for it. A massage therapist can help you identify where your problem areas are and prevent future problems from developing.
