Back pain comes in many forms, but any type or amount of pain can be frustrating and debilitating. Thankfully, there are numerous ways to seek relief. Keep reading to learn more about pinpointing and treating your back pain:
Identify or Describe the Root of the Problem
Before you visit your doctor, try to pinpoint the root of your back pain. Is it chronic, or does it only affect you occasionally? Does the pain get worse at certain times of the day, such as in the evening? Finally, was your back pain brought on suddenly or has it been worsening progressively?
In addition, try to describe your pain with a variety of words. This will help your doctor diagnose your pain and create a personalized treatment plan. Knowing whether your pain is dull, sharp, throbbing, or something else will help you figure out how to treat it.
Consider Alternative Approaches
Once you have identified and described some of the characteristics of your back pain, you can begin to treat it on your own. Before masking your pain with medicine, consider other approaches first, even as supplements. You may want to adjust your sleeping arrangements to avoid any positions that may cause discomfort or contortion. Certain types of pillows help you find a comfortable sleeping position. Avoid heavy lifting, or ensure that any lifting you do is done properly to avoid causing additional pain or damage. Heat packs can provide almost instant relief, as can light massage. You should also consider how your diet might be affecting your body. In many cases, altering your diet can help reduce inflammation, and therefore, the back pain.
Consult with a Specialist
If your back pain becomes unmanageable on your own, contact your doctor. He or she may suggest medicinal therapies or refer you to a specialist. Back specialists will be more experienced and skilled at diagnosing and treating your pain. If a surgery is required for relief from pain, your specialist will help walk you through your options and suggest possible treatment plans.
Above all, try to remain positive throughout the process, and do not be discouraged if the first couple of treatment options do not eradicate your pain. The human body is complex, which means that finding the best solution may take some time and experimenting.
Consider Physical Therapy
Whether or not you wind up having surgery to relieve your back pain, your doctor may recommend a few sessions of physical therapy. Even short-term therapy can provide lasting results. Your physical therapist can also recommend a variety of stretches and exercises. Implementing these into your daily routine can greatly help alleviate pain and prevent further injury.
Contact Suburban Orthopaedics if you are having back pain. Our skilled surgeons will help you to get relief from your pain.
