From the young to the old, everyone seems to have been devoured by this problem of back pain. Sitting for long hour and poor posture are few of the many things that can contribute to back pain. Although you always need to consult a specialist if you are experiencing such a problem, home remedies can act as a real supplement. Here are some of the home measures that can help in alleviating back pain.
1. Hot therapy
How it works
Over exertions and strains can result in agonizing back pain. This can be due to creation of tension in the muscles in the lower spine and may restrict blood circulation. Heat can help in stretching the tissues and distending blood vessels which can help in palliating the pain.
How to use
Heat is something that is being used since ancient times. Heat therapy can be extremely beneficial in providing relief from pack pain. You can easily use it while relaxing in your home or even while you are driving with the help of heat wraps. The most amazing thing about this heat therapy is that it can be done very easily and without much expenses. Heat wraps can be placed on the skin which radiate heat, thus relieving the person from pain. Heat patches can also be used in the same fashion, the only difference being that they should be placed on the clothing instead of the skin directly. Also, clothes immersed in hot water and then wrung can also be used as an effective means of heat therapy.
Do’s and don’ts
1. Don’t use steaming hot wraps or pads as they may cause injury.
2. Heat therapy is not advisable for patients suffering from high blood pressure, heart diseases and diabetes.
3. Always consult your doctor in case of rigorous back pain.
2. Cold therapy or ice massage
How it works
Ice therapy stops all nerve conduction in the area. It also slows the circulation by narrowing down the blood tissues. In a way, it benumbs the sore tissues, thus making them ineffective and providing relief to your back.
How to use
Like the heat therapy, ice therapy can also be pretty much beneficial for back pain patients. It is also easy to do and provides instant relief. You can use a cold pad which is flexible. It would mold to your back. You can then put a damp towel over it and then place it over the affected areas. Initially, you will feel benumbed followed by burning sensation and the pain will alleviate gradually.
c. Do’s and don’ts
1. If you are diabetic, please be very cautious because you may have problems with your skin getting too cold.
2. Apply the ice massage in a circular motion.
3. Don’t place the ice pads for more than 5 minutes as they can result in an ice burn.
3. Massage therapy
How it works
The muscle spasm is majorly due to the production of lactic acid in the affected areas. Massage therapy helps to release lactic acid from the muscles. It also helps to regulate the flow of blood in the affected muscles.
How to use
Massage therapy has been a consistent tool for a lot of therapists in combating back pain. There are many heath care providers who suggest this kind of therapy for patients suffering from back pain. The most widely used massage therapy nowadays is the neuro-muscular massage therapy which involves application of pressure on the affected areas with the help of fingers and elbow. The application is not kept stagnant. Instead it is rubbed around the whole areas along with the adjoining areas.
Do’s and don’ts
1. Massage therapy should be accompanied with other physical therapies so that both work in tandem.
2. While working with the massage therapist, the patient should inform him constantly about his state of pain.
