Back Problems Symptoms and Treatments

Back Problems Symptoms and Treatments

Back problems are the most common physical complaints among adults. Non specific back pain is the main cause of lost job time, to say nothing of the time and money spent in search of relief. And it's all because of one characteristic that makes us different from other animals; our upright posture. Many people spend their days sitting at desks, at our work stations, or in cars and trucks. Those who walk a lot or do physical labor develop good muscles tone in their backs and legs. But the people who sit most of the day either lose or don't develop that muscle tone, and their backs are the first place to show it.

Symptoms


  1. Persistent aching or stiffness anywhere along your spine, from the base of the neck to the hips.
  2. Sharp, localized pain in the neck, upper back, or lower back, especially after lifting heavy objects or engaging in other strenuous activities.
  3. Chronic ache in the middle or lower back, especially after sitting or standing for extended periods.

Treatment


Alternative therapies can be directed towards relieving the immediate discomfort of a back problem as well as conditioning and strengthening the body to prevent recurrence.

Acupressure


To relieve lower back pain, apply 60 seconds of thumb pressure on either side of the spine just above the top of the pelvic bone, then massage of this point, as well as at the hip and knee joints.

Acupuncture


Therapy involves inserting needles into points in the specific muscles and on the ear to relieve blockages in the energy channels associated with back pain. Acute problems can be relieved in one to four sessions, while chronic pain problems typically require 12 or more treatments.

Massage


Muscles that parallel the spine and support it often go into spasms during attacks of back pain. Massage can reduce pain by relaxing these muscles.

Yoga


Yoga postures done in a gentle way are very helpful in relaxing and stretching tense and painful muscles in the back that can lead to back problems.


Prevention


The most important preventive measure for lower back pain is practicing good posture. But it's also wise to stretch out your back if you've been sitting or standing for an hour. Analyze your posture by standing with your heels against a wall. Your calves, buttocks, shoulders, and the back of your head should touch the wall, and you should be able to slip your hand behind the small of your back. If your posture changes, correct it right away. If your stand for long period at your work, wear flat shoes with good arch support and get a box or step about six inches high to rest one foot on from time to time. 

Your sitting posture may be even more important. A good chair bottom supports your hips and doesn't touch the backs of your knees. Your chair back should be set at an angle of about 10 degrees and should cradle the small of your back comfortably. If necessary, use a wedge shaped cushion or lumbar pad. Your feet should rest flat on the floor. Your forearms should rest on your desk or work surface with your elbows almost at a right angle.