Home >>  Ask a question >>  Health Advice

Treatment for back pain

What is good for back pain?
(18 Sep 2007)

A back ache is a very common problem and most of us have experienced a back ache at some point in time in life. Back ache could be due to various reasons such as strain of the back, which is caused by strained muscles. Many a time, the cause of back ache is a mystery.


A back ache in most cases can be avoided by following some simple steps and if the steps don’t seem to help, you can consider some even simpler home remedies to cure the back ache. Surgery is considered to be the last resort for back aches.  Strain in your back muscles can be caused due to sudden movements and improper amounts of weight being lifted. Back ache could also be caused due to ruptured disks, sciatica, arthritis, or even irregularities of the skeletal system.

Osteoporosis, a common bone related problem, which causes the bones to get brittle and porous can also be the cause of back aches. Rare cases of back ache have been caused due to cancer of the spine and an infection in the spine. Various factors that can heighten the risk of you getting a back ache are obesity, old age, smoking, strenuous work, stress and anxiety.

Changes in the way you care for your back can prevent back aches. You should avoid standing for long periods and if you have to, you should consider placing your foot on a stool to ease some pressure off the lower back. You should also take care of the posture that you maintain while sitting. You should choose a comfortable seat which can provide support to your lower back and which has arm rests. If you have a persistent problem with your back, you should eat hot foods and try to keep yourself  warm and not expose yourself to too much of cold.
You should generously include garlic regularly in your diet. You can also do with some back massage, which when done with warm mustard or eucalyptus oil provides relief and eases back pain. In case the back ache is severe, you can consider using an ice pack to reduce the inflammation or swelling on your back. An ice pack should not be applied for long periods at one time. You should try and sleep on a mattress that is firm so that it provides an even surface to your back. You should avoid sleeping with your back up as this causes your body to curve and cause back pain.
answered by G M on 5 Mar 2010, 7:01:22

 

Treatment for back pain -

Back pain is the pain associated with the base of the spine region. The cause of the pain has to be known, to begin treatment. Back pain is associated with many underlying conditions, such as menstrual problems, spondylitis, menopausal problems and pregnancy. Adequate rest with an active life pattern helps. Complete bed rest s avoided, other than extreme conditions. Surgery is arranged in cases of nerve degeneration. Exercise with an insight into the condition helps in hastening recovery. An ice pack, placed 4-5 times a day is helpful. Pain killers are recommended under severe unbearable conditions. Guidance from an orthopedician is essential. Improper positions, while lifting objects or while sleeping makes the condition worse. Placing a knee in front and bending it forward to pick up things, helps in preventing injury to the back. Beans and raw salads are better avoided. Exposure to cold breeze and poor climate is not preferred. Sexual activity and strenuous exercises are reduced to the maximum extent. Supplements of vitamin D, phosphorus and calcium are recommended. Sleeping on a firm mattress helps. Lying down on the sides with the knees placed at right angles is preferred. Supplements of vitamin C and protein are advised. Weight management is essential, as increase in weight and stress results in raised risk of backache.

answered by Dr C on 18 Jan 2008, 1:31:23

 

Read more questions in Health Advice
 
Related Blogs
 
Top Searched Keywords
 
 
 
Send us your questions

(We do not sell your email address)