Most people will experience back pain at some point in life, according to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. The Mayo Clinic states that chronic nonspecific back pain may not have a known cause and can be difficult to treat. Common causes include excessive physical activity, improper lifting techniques, a disk tear or herniation, arthritis, degenerative spondylolisthesis, spinal stenosis, metastatic tumors or infection of the bone in the spinal column. The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons states that chronic back pain is usually dull, achy, worse with bending, lifting or sitting, and may come and go. Follow these guidelines to relieve your chronic back pain.
Conservative Treatments
Step 1
Avoid excessive sitting or resting. Perform activities that you can tolerate. Avoid excessive twisting or lifting heavy objects.
Step 2
Apply an ice pack to your lower back for 20 minutes. Remove the ice pack. Repeat this cycle as often as possible.
Step 3
Apply a heat pack to your lower back 48 to 72 hours after the onset of back pain. Alternate with ice packs, if possible.
Step 4
Gently stretch your lower back. Ask your doctor or physical therapist which stretches best fit your particular chronic back condition. Commit to perform these stretches daily.
Step 5
Take over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs to reduce swelling and ease chronic lower back pain. Avoid taking these medications for the over an extended period because they may cause liver or kidney damage.
Step 6
Ask your doctor about an epidural steroid injection. The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons states this procedure, using a strong anti-inflammatory, is an effective treatment for chronic back pain.
Step 7
Consider visiting a chiropractor for manipulation therapy.
Surgical Treatment
Step 1
Schedule an appointment with your doctor if conservative treatments are not providing relief.
Step 2
Discuss surgical options, such as a spinal fusion or a disc replacement. Ask your doctor about the possible risks, complications and expected outcomes of these procedures.
Step 3
Follow your doctor or physical therapist's rehabilitation plan to ensure maximum recovery from your surgery.
Step 4
Prevent recurrent or worsening back pain by exercising, managing your weight, using proper lifting techniques and avoiding excessive twisting or repetitive back motion.
Tips and Warnings
- Seek immediate medical attention if your back pain is acute or excessive. Do not place ice pack or heating pad directly on skin. Do not overuse NSAIDs because they may cause liver or kidney damage.
- Seek immediate medical attention if you are experiencing numbness between your legs or bowel or bladder difficulty.
Things You'll Need
- Ice pack
- Heating pad
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
