Simple remedies to try at home!
Back and neck pain is just that: a pain in the neck! Even one day of pain can have an impact on daily activities, let alone chronic pain that has its victims begging for answers about back and neck pain treatment.
Neck and back pain causes are numerous, from a sports injury to a bone fracture to poor posture habits. At Allied Bone and Joint, we find that the most common serious causes of neck and back pain are:
- Lumbar Muscle Strain: when muscle fibers in the lower back are stretched or torn due to sudden or gradual injury
- Ruptured Disc: when a spinal disc cracks exposing the inner material to the spinal canal
- Spinal Stenosis: A narrowing of the spinal canal, due to either a congenital disease or aging
- Arthritis: joint pain or joint disease that occurs due to various causes
- Slipped Disc (spondylolisthesis): when a vertebra slips out of place
All of these back and neck pain causes require professional assistance. However, there are many types of pain and discomfort that can be assuaged through simple at-home treatments.
Non-conservative treatments include surgical interventions or injections, but only for more severe instances of back and neck pain. We believe in finding treatments that require the least amount of intervention and cost in order to save you time, money, and undue bodily stress. That’s why we suggest trying these conservative, simple, remedies for back and neck pain.
Simple Back and Neck Pain Treatment
When it comes to conservative back and neck pain treatment, there are many things you can do at home to help ease discomfort. However, if the pain continues or worsens, contact a professional.
Rest: Back and neck pain can often stem from overuse or strain from a single activity. For a few days, avoid sports and activities that are strenuous to your body, including heavy lifting. After symptoms lessen, reintroduce the activities to determine what may be the cause of the pain.
Ice/Heat: During the first few days of pain, apply ice to the affected area in order to eradicate swelling. Then switch to heat (with a heating pad or warm shower) to ease the muscles. Continue until the pain is lessened.
Exercise: In order to address chronic neck pain, consider exercising your neck every day by stretching from side-to-side and up-and-down. These movements will strengthen the muscles that are causing you pain. Also practice good posture to strengthen the back and core muscles.
Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers can be used in moderation for neck and back pain relief. Acetaminophen and Ibuprofen are both safe and effective in easing minor pain due to overuse or strain.
Alternative Therapies: Many patients use alternative therapies like massage and yoga for back and neck pain treatment. Consult your orthopedic surgeon about whether this might be a good option for you.
For more information about neck and back pain relief, contact Allied Bone and Joint. Our team of professionals are eager to help you get your life back in motion!
