Back pain is awful! It can interfere with daily tasks, make you irritable, and just be a general nuisance in every aspect of your life. How can you deal with it? You can start with the basics. In this blog post, you will learn about some simple do’s and don’ts that can prevent back pain from worsening and may even help you heal.
Do Not Stop Moving
When you experience back pain, you might feel tempted to remain in bed or on the couch. However, staying inactive can actually slow your recovery. Movement helps keep your muscles strong and your joints flexible. You can walk at a gentle pace or perform light activities around your home if your pain allows. If you stay active, your back will feel less stiff, and your body will heal more effectively. Listen to your body and avoid overexertion, but do not believe that rest alone provides the answer.
Do Avoid Certain Exercises
While movement remains important, some activities can do more harm than good. You should avoid activities that place additional stress on your spine, such as running on hard surfaces, doing deep squats, or performing toe touches with straight legs. Any movements you do should be gentle, and they should not exacerbate your condition. Consult with a healthcare provider or physical therapist to find out which exercises suit your specific case.
Do Not Do a Lot of Lifting or Twisting
Heavy lifting and repetitive twisting motions can place significant strain on your back. If your job or daily routine requires you to lift objects, use your legs instead of your back to pick things up. Keep objects close to your body and ask for help with heavy items. Avoid twisting your torso as you lift, as this movement can lead to muscle strains or herniated discs. Even if you feel strong, respect your limits to protect your back from further harm.
Do Stretch
Gentle stretching can increase your flexibility and relieve tension in your back muscles. You can try stretches such as the knee-to-chest stretch or the cat-cow pose to promote comfort and mobility. Always move into each stretch slowly and hold the position for several seconds. Never force your body into a stretch that feels painful. If you incorporate regular stretching into your routine, you may notice reduced stiffness and improved range of motion.
Do Not Neglect Professional Care
If your back pain persists or worsens, seek the guidance of a healthcare professional. A doctor can diagnose underlying issues and recommend appropriate treatments. You should not rely solely on self-care methods or hope that the pain resolves on its own. Early intervention often leads to better outcomes, so make your health a priority and reach out for qualified support when necessary.
Your back is one of the most important musculoskeletal systems in your body! When it is in pain, be smart about how you deal with the situation. Your caution can prevent the situation from worsening and promote your body’s natural healing processes.
Meet the Practice
Dr. Paul Tortland, DO, is a Sports Medicine specialist in the Glastonbury, CT, area. He and our team offer a range of non-surgical pain relief methods for back pain, including regenerative medicine, pain relief injections, and more. If you are struggling with persistent back problems, we can use advanced diagnostic equipment to evaluate your situation and recommend your next steps. Get in touch with our highly skilled team at 860-430-9690.