Almost 80 percent of all people will experience back pain at some point in their life, according to the American Chiropractic Association. It is the fifth most common cause for visits to the doctor. Most of these cases of back pain will be non-organic, which means that there is not an underlying disease or condition causing the pain. Therefore, simple treatments and exercises benefit those who suffer from acute low back pain.
At home treatments
Treatment for an episode of acute back pain usually begins with at home care of resting and icing for 20 minutes every few hours. Some people prefer a moist hot pack for 20 minutes every few hours to help relieve some of the muscle tension in the back. Over-the-counter pain relievers are another option to dull the pain that is being felt by this episode of acute back pain. If the pain does not improve within 48 to 72 hours, a physician's opinion should be sought.
Medical Interventions
There are many different types of treatment within the medical community for acute back pain. Medical doctors may prescribe a muscle relaxer or a pain medication to help your muscle spasms decrease and to mask the pain you are feeling. A massage therapist can help naturally relax your muscles and decrease your tension. A doctor of chiropractic will adjust the spine to restore your proper alignment and to restore your body's ability to heal itself. They may also perform physiotherapy to decrease the muscle tightness and spasms. An acupuncturist will treat the muscles and the pain. Sufferers can choose to combine a few of these different treatments to cope with and heal from the acute pain episodes.
Exercises
There are many at-home exercises that can be performed to decrease the tension in your back during and after an acute episode of pain. A chiropractor or physical therapist will commonly share some of these stretches and strengthening exercises with you during your visits. Stretching the muscles of the low back by kneeling on all fours and arching the back to the ceiling and then bringing the stomach towards the floor will help to stretch the muscles. Sitting on an exercise ball and moving the hips left and right and tilting the pelvis back and forward will help to strengthen the muscles of the low back while adding very little stress.
Prevention
To prevent further episodes of acute back pain, use proper posture and build the muscles of the core. Pilates is a great type of exercise that focuses on core strength. Continue treatments with the chiropractor or physical therapist to resolve the underlying problems. Use proper technique when exercising and lifting to avoid future acute attacks of back pain.
