Care for Your Back

According to the American Chiropractic Association, 31 million people in the country are suffering from lower back pain during any given time. It is an extremely common problem and is second only to respiratory infections as the most frequent cause for doctor visits and even costly bills that come with MRI scans and Ultrasound scans.

You aren't really aware of it, but your back gets put through a lot of abuse each day. It supports your upper body while you stand or sit, so your muscles and spine absorb a lot of pressure. Furthermore, the prevalence of office jobs where people sit down all day has resulted in an epidemic of weak backs. Naturally, this leads to pain and increases the likelihood of injury. Common back problems can range from mild and temporary to excruciating and long-lived.

Spasms and strains are some of the milder complaints that usually go away with a little rest or some pain relievers. Such problems affect the muscles and usually result from overuse, hyperextension and movements more sudden or violent that what they're prepared for. Sprains often occur with a muscle strain because the ligament attached to the muscle may have also been pulled too violently.

Some of the more prominent serious back injuries are herniated discs, arthritis and sciatica, all of which can cause debilitating pain and significantly restricted range of motion. Arthritis typically results when cartilage between the vertebrae becomes worn down and doesn't get replaced adequately. Therefore, the bones rub together and cause irritation and inflammation. Older people and those with nutrient deficiencies are especially susceptible.

A herniated disc happens when the cushions sandwiched between the cartilage of your vertebrae bulge out and star to pinch nerves, causing pain or numbness. Sciatica involves a nerve that goes from your spinal cord into your leg. If this nerve becomes pinched or otherwise irritated, pain, numbness and movement difficulty can result.

In order to alleviate back pain and prevent further damage to your spine, muscles and nerves, it is important to take measures to ensure your back stays in good shape. All you must do is make a few minor alterations to your lifestyle and habits.

Exercise

When the rest of the body is out of shape, the back is guaranteed to suffer, too. At first, avoid strenuous exercises like lifting weights, gardening or situps. Instead, go for a walk or swim. After you feel better, switch your focus to strengthening core muscles, which will in turn support your back.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C is needed to turn collagen into cartilage, ligaments, tendons and joint lubrication. It is also a strong anti-inflammatory.

Heat

Soaking in a hot bath or using a heating pad can release tension in the lower back, stimulate blood flow, soothe pain and reduce inflammation.

Bromelain

This enzyme found in pineapple acts as an NSAID without the chemicals and side effects. It reduces pain, fight inflammation and opens up blood flow to affected areas. Take it on an empty stomach!

 

 Ditch the Mattress

Modern beds are terribly bad for the back. Most civilizations in the world have long slept on padded mats on the floor and as a result, had much stronger backs and improved sleep quality.

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