Bones, joints, and muscles

Is back pain slowing you down?

(ARA) - No matter what career field you work in or activities you do, you are susceptible to back injury. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, back injuries are the most frequent reason for missing work besides the common cold. Made up of bone, muscle, nerves and soft tissue, the back functions in almost every movement the body makes.

Sometimes back pain is caused by a specific incident, such as a car accident or problem at work. But often an accumulation of stress and pressure causes this condition over time. "Back injury is one of the biggest problems we have in the industrialized world, a common problem for mankind," says Dr. Glen O'Sullivan, a Stanford trained spine specialist and orthopedic surgeon.

The lower back tends to be a problem area for many people because it bears most of the weight and stress of the entire body. Back conditions affect people on many levels, from causing mild pain during certain activities to keeping them entirely bedridden. Common conditions include herniated disks, sciatica, degenerative disc disease, slipped discs, back sprains, strains and fractures.

For those suffering from back pain, the best thing to do is to speak with a doctor who can determine the problem and course of treatment. Most back pain can be treated without resorting to surgery.

Prescription medication might be suggested as part of a treatment plan, but more natural options are available that can provide relief and improve the condition. Consider these discussion points when consulting with a physician to help relieve pain quickly and naturally.

Use a Back Brace

There are a variety of back braces that can help to reduce pain and increase back endurance. They range in price from less the $10 to more than $1,000. It's best to talk with a doctor about options. Some back braces are only available through a prescription. A physician can prescribe the right brace and many insurance companies will reimburse most or part of the cost.

One example is the Bio Skin "Back Jack", which is extremely effective at relieving pain and allowing the wearer to return to activity. It works through a double-cinching mechanism that unloads and supports the spine. The brace has helped patients to achieve pain relief and increased mobility so they can get out of bed and get back to doing the regular activities in their lives.

"Most acute episodes of pain are from muscles going into spasm to protect the spine. Back Jack allows immediate support, compression, and distraction across the lumbar spine. As soon as the brace is put on, the patient feels immediately the support and pain relief. Patients like this brace … and if they like it, then I like it," comments Dr. O'Sullivan.

Keep Moving

"In the old days, the treatment for back pain was bed rest and sometimes prolonged bed rest. We now know that it is important to keep moving or get moving as quickly as possible. Ninety percent of back problems will go away with proper conservative treatment and time," says Dr. O' Sullivan.

Prolonged bed rest isn't the best course of action and light activity typically helps speed healing and recovery. Activities that are stressful and cause back pain should be avoided, but prolonged bed rest can increase problems by causing muscle atrophy. Continue gentle activities to help strengthen the back and increase endurance, helping the patient to return back to work as soon as possible. Consider wearing a back brace to reduce pain as you return to activity.

When moving, always think of the proper way to conduct these activities. Lifting should utilize the strength in the legs with straight up and down movements. When sitting or standing always practice good posture.

Cold and Heat Treatment

Immediately after injury, use a cold compress several times a day for 10 to 20 minutes where there is pain. Make sure to put a barrier between the cold treatment and the skin. After spasms and acute pain subside, heat therapy can be helpful in relieving pain and increasing mobility. This treatment can include a hot compress or hot bath. Alternating hot and cold treatments can soothe sore and inflamed muscles. If you have questions, discuss with your doctor.

Exercise

Mild to moderate exercise increases back strength and endurance. Exercise also encourages maintenance of a healthy weight, which is very positive for relieving back stress. Walking is a great low-impact choice. Stretching before and after workouts helps to increase back flexibility.

With the astonishing number of people affected by back pain, it's important to take precautions, visit a medical professional, and treat the condition early to avoid additional pain and costs if left untreated. For more information, visit www.BioSkinBracing.com.

Courtesy of ARA Content