How to Cure Back Pain

Back pain afflicts most of us at some point of time. In this article, we reveal simple and useful tips on.

Apply Heat or Ice

An effective remedy is applying ice and/or heat on the affected area. Wrap ice packs in a towel and apply for not more than 10 minutes. Ensure the ice pack is not applied directly on the skin to prevent frostbite and freezing. Also, do not lie directly on the ice pack. Moist heat such as a hot water bottle, tub bath or hot shower can also help. Do not prolong the heat application for more than 20 minutes. Ensure the heat is moderate as excessive heat can tire and drain you out.

Massage to Cure Back Pain

A massage on your painful back can be helpful as it increases blood flow to the muscles and helps them to relax. Ensure you get the massage from a trained and experienced masseur.

Medications

You can also try painkillers like aspirin, ibuprofen and acetaminophen for relief. But beware, because some painkillers cause side effects like stomach irritation. Read the label and adhere to the recommendations regarding time schedules and dosage.

Rest to Cure Back Pain

Take adequate rest by lying comfortably on a supportive mattress. For a bad back, the best position is to lie on one side with knees bent. You can place a pillow in between your knees for additional comfort. Or, simply lie on your back and place a pillow below the knees. It is not recommended to lie down on the stomach.

Exercise for Back Pain

If your back pain subsides to tolerable levels, you can start doing exercises. Avoiding workouts will weaken and stiffen your muscles, which could cause future problems. But, if you feel pain during the workout, stop immediately. Gradually, you can increase the intensity of the workouts.

Manage Tension and Stress to Cure Back Pain

Mental stress and tension are often the reasons behind back pain. To avoid these psychological issues, you can try guided imagery, meditation, yoga and pranayama to keep your mind sound and free from worries. Listening to soothing music can also provide relaxation to a stressed mind and body.

Recreational Activities

You can stretch and tone your back muscles by indulging in water walking, brisk walking and swimming. If your back is still sore, avoid sporting activities such as aerobics, diving, racquetball, bowling, golf and tennis.

Yoga to Cure Back Pain

Research reveals that practicing yoga poses and meditation could be the best remedy for back pain. A study conducted at the University of Washington found that yoga cures lower back pain more quickly than other exercises. Yoga practice is all about stretching and deep breathing, which improves strength and promotes relaxation. Thus, yoga comprehensively alleviates the physical and emotional triggers that cause back pain.

Yoga Poses for Back Pain

Corpse Pose (Shavasana)

This relaxation pose eases tension and relieves pain in the back muscles. This pose gives complete rest to the body and puts the mind at peace.

Tadasana (Mountain Pose)

This pose stretches the spine and is good for the muscles in the neck, shoulders and arms. Tension in the back muscles is soothed and eased.

Fish Pose (Matsyasana)

Fish pose relieves neck stiffness and is good for the cervical vertebrae.

Locust Pose (Shalabhasana)

The back muscles are targeted by this pose and it also soothes nerve tension.

Diet to Cure Back Pain

Along with the above mentioned cures for back pain, you should also consume a healthy diet. Avoid too much processed foods and caffeine. Include lots of fruits, vegetables, lean meat, fish, chicken, seeds and nuts, soy and whole grains in your daily diet.