3 Things You Can Do To Alleviate Back Pain

If you have ever had back pain, you know how uncomfortable it can be to sit, walk or even lie down. In fact, there may be no truly comfortable position when your back is bothering you. Nevertheless, there are things that you can do to alleviate back pain. Here are a few:

Stress Less

The muscles in your back, neck and shoulder may tighten and become painful in response to stress.The muscle tension and spasms associated with stress may manifest as shooting pains across your shoulders and upper back. In addition, if you change your posture for a prolonged period in response to the stress, your entire back may feel stiff and sore.

Nevertheless, there are things that you can do to lower your stress levels. Here a few:

• Get a massage. Massage loosens tight muscles, helps you relax and even improves circulation. You can have a massage performed by a professional, or to save money, you can schedule regular sessions with a student at a school of massage. The student learns more about his or her craft, and you benefit from the massages at a reduced price.
• Breathe deeply. Deep slow breaths can help alleviate stress. When you feel stressed, inhale deeply and slowly through your nose for a count of five, hold the breath for another count of five, and then slowly exhale through your mouth.
• Practice Yoga. Yoga can help strengthen and elongate the muscles of your back, but the therapeutic exercise can also help you relax and release tension.

Get a New Mattress

Research shows that you can help lessen your back pain by buying a new mattress. As a mattress ages, it may no longer provide consistent support for your body, and your back may be stressed by the uncomfortable positions each time you lie down.  

When buying a new new mattress, look for a mattress that is firm enough to provide even support but soft enough to relieve the discomfort of pressure points when you rest. Some studies suggest that a medium firm mattress is the best option for people who suffer from back pain.

Buy New Shoes

Lower back pain can result from the stress or shock of walking or running on a hard surface. Great walking or running shoes offer good shock absorbency. However, this feature becomes less effective over time due to wear and tear on the shoes. If you can no longer feel a bouncy sensation in the bed of your shoe as you walk, purchase a new pair.

In addition, avoid purchasing shoes with high heels that force your body to conform to an awkward position that may stress your back muscles.

If you are experiencing back pain, schedule an appointment with a back pain specialist in your area today.

For help with back pain, contact a company such as Southwest Florida Neurosurgical Associates.