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Below are some different methods of treatments used by health practitioners. By education yourself, you are better prepared to work a skilled practitioner to determine the type of treatment that works best for you.
Exercise and Stretching
Regular gentle exercise and stretching builds up strength and suppleness in the back and can stop pain returning. Trained professionals teach people how to exercise and stretch safely while they still have pain, and then move on to a more strenuous regime to help prevent future bouts of back pain.
Manipulation
This is use of the hands to apply force to the back. Chiropractors say the technique 'adjusts' the spine and take a joint to the limits of its natural movement for therapeutic benefit. Manipulation should only be carried out by appropriately trained chiropractors.
Medicines and injections
Doctors can prescribe a wide range of medicines to reduce pain and inflammation. A pharmacist can also provide advice. In cases of serious back pain, it's possible to inject anesthetic or anti-inflammatory drugs into the back.
Massage, heat and hydrotherapy
Other therapies include massage, since the rubbing and kneading can stimulate the tissues. Alternatively applying hot and cold packs can help reduce pain and inflammation in the early stages of back pain.
Physiotherapists sometimes provide programs of exercises in a special swimming pool for people who have serious or long-term back problems. Warm water helps support damaged tissues and also provides resistance for exercises.
Traction
Traction involves pulling the bones slightly apart so that pressure on the nerves is relieved. Traction is used less than it used to be and many find it helpful in relieving your pain as the therapy loosens the tense muscles which can cause pain.
TENS
TENS stands for transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulator. This is a small box with terminals attached to the painful area. It produces a tingling sensation and can help reduce pain. TENS machines are easily bought, but you should always read the instructions and seek the advice of a health professional if possible.
Braces and supports
Back supports are best avoided because they allow the back muscles to become weak. But light supports worn for short periods, as recommended by physiotherapists, can help people keep moving properly. Only one per cent of back pain investigation results in an operation on the back.
Complementary approaches
These include acupuncture, aromatherapy, healing, herbalism, homeopathy, hypnotherapy, meditation, reflexology, naturopathy, massage, visualization and yoga.
When to See a Doctor
Many people with back pain never see a doctor; they just deal with the pain. Often this is because they don’t want to take prescription painkillers or relaxants. The unfortunate thing is that most people can find quick relief and, in many cases, permanent relieve by working closely with a doctor of chiropractic.
As a general rule people with back pain are advised to contact their doctor if the pain is no better after about a week. Most chiropractors will take exception to this, asking why should you suffer for that week. Chiropractic patients will readily admit that by visiting their doctor of chiropractic as soon as the pain or discomfort starts, relieves the symptoms and often corrects the conditions very quickly.
There are times, however, when you should be aware of symptoms that may indicate serious though uncommon health conditions. These include:
- difficulty passing urine
- numbness around your back passage or genitals
- numbness, pins and needles or weakness in your legs
- pain running down one or both legs
- unsteadiness on your feet
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