When back pain strikes, it is tempting to choose the fastest pain relief, which is usually over the counter painkillers. However, as chronic back pain is usually a long term issue with a number of underlying causes, medication is not going to get to the root of the problem. It also only offers short term relief, and you can’t rely on pills forever.
There are many ways to kill back pain without medication, but many people don’t explore them with an open mind. Whether you stock up on over the counter pain killers or visit your GP for something stronger, you’ll be masking the symptoms of back pain rather than treating the causes.
Alternatives to Medication
From natural remedies to manual therapies, there are many other treatments which can work if you give them a try. Here are five ways to put an end the back pain without having to take pills every day.
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Chiropractic
Chiropractic treatment, which involves manipulating the spine with the hands, can prove beneficial for relieving back pain and stiffness. In addition to helping sufferers, chiropractors can also help prevent back pain in the first place and give posture and lifestyle advice to keep the pain at bay.
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Acupuncture
As an alternative therapy, acupuncture can be used to boost internal healing and stimulate nerves under the skin. There are many different types of acupuncture, but some chiropractors also practice fine needling – a certain type of acupuncture – to treat back pain which releases pain-relieving chemicals into the body.
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Yoga
The gentle stretching of yoga can be light relief for the whole back, and sufferers of back pain find it beneficial. There is also a special yoga programme designed for people with back problems – visit www.yogaforbacks.co.uk for more information about practicing yoga for a healthy back.
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Gentle exercise
It’s not just yoga or Pilates which is good for your back – any form of movement is. When you suffer from chronic back pain, it’s so tempting to stay in bed all day and refuse to leave the house, however this makes the matter worse. Getting out and about and taking part in gentle exercise, such as walking or swimming, can result in less frequent and less intense pain.
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New mattress
How you sleep can have a huge effect on your back, so it’s important to try and give yourself a comfortable night’s sleep. It’s a myth that a firm mattress is better for your back – it’s about what you find comfortable. A supportive, softer mattress can put less pressure on your lower back while you sleep.
Next time you rush for the paracetamol, see if any of these remedies work first. Try a combination and kill back pain once and for all.
