In many cases lower back pain is caused by injury resulting from heavy or improper lifting. In other cases people suffer from chronic back pain which is nonspecific and no actual cause can be found. In other cases there may be serious injury to the back that requires extensive care. The first step in finding out what can be done about lower back pain in Vestal NY is to discuss the situation with a doctor.
When the cause of the pain is nothing more than a minor injury there are a number of approaches to alleviating it, most often the approach is conservative and within a short period of time the symptoms disappear. Some of the conservative treatments include non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, a popular NSAID is Ibuprofen. If the pain continues or is severe the doctor may suggest muscle relaxants or opiates such as hydrocodone.
As well as medication to treat lower back pain another approach that often helps with relief is to alternate heat and cold treatments. Heat has a tendency to relax muscles so using a heat source such as a heating pad for 15 or 20 minutes may prove to be effective. Follow this with 15 or 20 minutes of ice to reduce swelling and ease discomfort.
Lower back pain can also be eased by getting into certain body positions. The best body position is to lie down on the floor and raise the legs up on a chair or couch until the legs are bent at the hips and knees at about an angle of 90 degrees. This helps to reduce back pressure but some people find the position uncomfortable. For those who are uncomfortable, lying flat on the bed with the knees propped up on pillows also may prove helpful.
In many cases back pain can be relieved by doing specific exercises that are suggested by a chiropractor or physical therapist. These exercises are designed to stretch the back gently. Some doctors will suggest wearing a back brace that is designed expressly for the lower back arch, this will help when both standing and seated.
If you do suffer from lower back pain in Vestal NY try to find out what situations are causing it. Perhaps you are sitting improperly and a posture correction or an ergonomic chair may be the solution. People who are overweight put considerable strain on their back that can be relieved by shedding weight. Be aware of the proper way to lift weight as this is a common cause of back injury.
Owego Chiropractic can treat you for Back Pain in Vestal NY. During the initial examination the doctors utilize the latest in orthopedic, neurologic and muscle testing equipment to ensure the most accurate diagnosis of the problem.
