If you are suffering with back or neck pain, it can be confusing to determine the right way to relieve your pain and get back to normal activities. For some, permanent injury or changes in their body mean arthritis and the tendency for more aches and pains. However, it doesn’t mean you can’t do something about it and live a pain-free life.
Here are some tips to relieve your back and neck pain:
1. IMPROVE YOUR POSTURE
Make sure to stand up frequently, at least every 30 minutes and vary your positions of work throughout the day. Aim to correct your posture when sitting and standing and make adjustments as needed. Imagine a string from the top of your head gently pulling you towards the sky.
2. AVOID INJURY
Make sure you know the proper way to lift, bend and pick up objects, even if they are not heavy. Use your knees to bend down and stick your bottom out, keeping your back straight. Our experts can show you proper body mechanics with every day tasks.
3. ADEQUATE REST & EXERCISE
Your body needs to heal after every day, so a good night’s sleep is critical, especially those hours before 12am. Record your favorite late night shows so you don’t have to stay up late! Sleep deprivation actually worsens your pain tolerance and saps your strength. In turn, make sure you exercise – at least walk 30 minutes a day to improve your strength, heart health and flexibility.
4. NUTRITION
It is often found with people in pain, that their diet aggravates their pain and their lack of water “dries” out their tissues. It is very important to avoid processed foods and fried foods, which increase inflammation in the body. Of course, eat more vegetables, fruits and lean protein. Don’t forget to keep a glass of water by your desk and refill it during the day so you stay hydrated!
5. GET EXPERT HELP
The best solution for your back or neck pain is to restore proper movement, strength and coordination of the muscles for maximum results. Our physical therapists are the medical experts that can help you improve your function and relieve your pain. You should see your physical therapist at least once a year for a check up to maintain your health.
Getting the Right Kind of Help
Our physical therapy professionals are the medical experts in the muscle and skeletal systems of the body. Whether your pain is from your back, neck, shoulders or legs, we perform a thorough analysis of your posture, movement and strength. This allows us to pinpoint exactly what is causing your pain. Only then, can an effective treatment plan be made to obtain the fastest results. Call us today to learn more how we can eliminate your pain and improve your health!
For more information on our spine program and how we can help you quickly relieve your pain, call us today!
