People often visit their doctors and miss work because of back pain. In fact, it’s the leading cause of disability around the world. Most people experience back pain at least once in their lives. Since it’s been an issue for centuries, there are many lower back pain treatment methods that can address the problem.
Lower Back Pain Overview
Lower back pain is most common among adults ages 30–50. The pain can be acute or chronic. Acute pain lasts for less than three months and may get better with mild treatment. However, chronic pain may be severe, continue for years, and require more intense treatment.
Lower back pain can develop because of nerve irritation and pulled muscles. Spinal problems such as stenosis or slipped disk may also cause this problem.
Lower Back Pain Treatment Options
There’s a wide range of lower back pain treatment methods. However, doctors can help people determine the best options for them depending on the causes of their pain. In most cases, the treatments can eliminate the problem in just a few weeks. Although rarely necessary, surgery is also an option for treatment.
Over-the-Counter and Prescription Drugs
Over-the-counter painkillers such as naproxen sodium and ibuprofen can moderate relieve acute pain. If the over-the-counter versions don’t get the job done, prescription versions are an alternative. Topical creams, ointments, and salves may be helpful as well.
When these strategies aren’t enough for the pain, prescription muscle relaxants could work for pulled muscles. If the cause is spinal related, cortisone or numbing injections can decrease inflammation around the nerves. Low-dose antidepressants also have pain relief qualities that aid chronic symptoms.
Although addictive, doctors may prescribe narcotics such as hydrocodone or codeine for acute pain. The prescriptions only last for a short period until the severe pain subsides. Even while following the prescription, however, some people develop an addiction to these drugs. They often require drug and pain recovery rehab programs.
Exercise and Physical Therapy
Although most people with lower back pain want to rest, movement is actually the best medicine for acute pain. They should continue their activities as much as their backs can tolerate. However, they shouldn’t participate in activities that increase the pain. When it doesn’t subside, they should see a physical therapist for help.
Physical therapists can use electrical stimulation, heat, muscle-release techniques, and ultrasound. As the pain gets better, they teach exercises that improve posture and physical resilience. The exercises also strengthen the abdominal and back muscles. Using these techniques regularly can prevent lower back pain in the future.
Holistic Therapies and Treatments
Several holistic options can relieve lower back pain. Acupressure is a treatment that uses pressure points in the body to reduce pain. Acupuncture is a similar technique that uses needles at certain points on the body. For overworked or pulled muscles, massage therapy is also a viable option.
Chiropractic care involves manipulating the spine to correct misalignment and ease pain. Lastly, yoga uses breathing exercises, poses, and relaxing techniques. This discipline stretches and strengthens muscles to control pain.
Surgery
It’s rare for people to need surgery for lower back pain. However, it might be beneficial if nerve compression causes muscle weakness or radiating leg pain. Surgery could be necessary for spinal problems such as stenosis or herniated disk that don’t respond to other therapies. Other spinal issues that may require surgery include fractures, infections, and tumors.
Get Lower Back Pain Treatment in Maryland
If you have lower back pain, you may need proper rehab to help it heal. Located in Havre de Grace, Maryland, Ashley Addiction Treatment offers a comprehensive Pain Recovery Program that can help you live a better life.
We offer a range of services through our chronic pain management and substance abuse programs, including:
In addition to these services, Ashley Addiction Treatment provides continuing care, enrichment days, parent and family activities, and workshops. We also have an amenity-rich facility that offers volleyball, basketball, fitness equipment, house cleaning, and laundry services. We even have professional chefs to cook meals for our residential guests.
Don’t let pain in your lower back prevent you from enjoying life. Learn how to manage the pain and promote self-healing from our professionals. Dial 866-313-6307 now to start rehab at Ashley Addiction Treatment.