Lower back pain is one of the most common ailments our clients come to us for help with. In fact, according to the National Institutes of Health, eight out of 10 adults will experience back pain at some point in their lives. While several things can cause lower back pain, there are also some things you can do to manage it.
Here are five tips for managing lower back pain:
- Stay active. While it may seem counterintuitive, staying active is one of the best things you can do for your back. It’s tempting to stay in bed or on the couch when you’re in pain, but this will only worsen the pain in the long run. Instead, try to stay as active as possible and do some gentle stretching or walking daily.
- Practice good posture. Poor posture is one of the leading causes of lower back pain, so it’s essential to be aware of your posture throughout the day. For example, when sitting, be sure to keep your back straight and your feet flat on the floor. When standing, keep your shoulders back and your stomach pulled in. And when lifting something heavy, be sure to bend at your knees instead of your waist.
- Use heat or ice. Applying heat or ice to your lower back can help relieve pain and inflammation. Try using a heating pad set on low for 20-30 minutes at a time or placing an ice pack wrapped in a towel on your back for 15-20 minutes at a time. Do this several times a day as needed.
- See a Chiropractor. Chiropractors are trained experts in relieving lower back pain caused by muscle tension and joint dysfunction. At Terlep Chiropractic, we use various gentle adjustment techniques to realign the spine and relieve pressure on the nerves and muscles in the lower back. We also offer massage and physical therapy services that can help reduce pain and improve function.
- Take care of yourself. In addition to following these tips, specifically for lower back pain, it’s also essential to take care of yourself overall by eating a healthy diet, doing regular exercise, and getting enough sleep. You’re less likely to experience problems like lower back pain when your body is healthy.
Lower back pain is extremely common, but that doesn’t mean you must suffer silently! By following these tips for managing lower back pain, you can find relief and get to living life without pain! If you need additional help managing your lower back pain, please don’t hesitate to contact us at Terlep Chiropractic.
At Terlep Chiropractic, our central focus is on getting each person we see pain-free while experiencing the best quality of life possible. In our facility, you’ll find several chiropractic physicians with different areas of specialization to meet your needs. Call us at (352) 666-2222 to schedule an appointment today!
