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10 Tips to Cope with Chronic Back Pain
Back pain is among the most common and agonizing health problems. At least 3 out of 5 people experience back pain at some point in their life. More than 20% of patients complaining of back pain develop a chronic condition. Common causes of back pain include poor ergonomics, bone loss diseases, auto accident injuries, and arthritis. Many spinal injuries can be healed through medication or minor surgeries, but some persist. At times, there is not much doctors can do to provide lasting comfort. Living with back pain can be frustrating, but there are ways to make it bearable:
1. Eliminate Stress
Anxiety, anger, and depression increase our stress levels, which tend to increase our body’s sensitivity to pain. Stressful situations elevate the intensity of back pain, so you need something to calm down or lighten the mood. You can do this by distracting yourself with something that helps you relax. Do something fun or make yourself busy in an activity, which can potentially shift your focus.
2. Meditate
Mindfulness is another way to release stress and forget about your pain. This state of mind can be achieved through meditative exercises, such as yoga and deep breathing. Yoga comprises of body postures and stretches that stimulate pressure points to alleviate pain.
3. Engage in Low Impact Workout
Working out increases production of endorphins in the body, which can help ease your back pain. However, you must not engage in physical activity that strains your back. Heavy weight lifting and exercises that require you to twist your body should be avoided. Opt for low impact workouts or sports like cycling and swimming.
4. Try Alternative Therapies
Do not give up on your back pain just because medical treatment did not work for you. There are several alternate therapies that could heal or improve your condition. You can try physiotherapy, crystal healing, chiropractic treatment, biofeedback, acupuncture, or injection based treatment.
5. Eat Healthy/Stay Fit
Staying fit and eating wholesome meals can solve most of our health problems, including back pain. People who are overweight are more susceptible to back pain, so change your eating habits to shed those extra pounds.
6. Avoid Drinking and Smoking
Alcohol and tobacco are bad for health in every way. Both are addictive, stress inducing, and damaging to internal organs. Abandoning habits of binge drinking and smoking may trigger drastic improvement in overall heath, thereby reducing back pain.
7. Invest in Ergonomic Furniture
The right chair, bed, and couch can make all the difference. Buy a specialized mattress that supports your back and a pillow that allows proper alignment of your head with the spine. You can also replace your regular working chair with a comfortable gaming chair.
8. Opt for Orthopedic Footwear
The shape and position of your foot can also affect your back pain. Look for orthopedic shoes that were particularly designed for individuals with back problems. Avoid wearing high and pointed heels at all costs.
9. Take it Easy
People with chronic back pain should not overexert themselves. Do not engage in chores or activities that put too much pressure on your back. If your job requires physically challenging tasks, you should at least take breaks and work in a comfortable posture.
10. Befriend a Masseuse
A good massage can take away the pain, at least temporarily. By befriending or dating a professional masseuse is your best bet to get a relaxing massage every day. Jokes aside, a spa day every now and then is the kind of break you need to forget about your stiff back.
Author Bio
John Adams is a lifestyle blogger who creates content focused on healthcare and personal well-being. He encourages readers to take care of their body and mind to live an ideal life. He also stresses on improving one’s quality of life via positive thoughts and actions. Blogging about personal opinions and life experiences makes John happy, and he is always open to constructive criticism.
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