Finding relief from Bad Backs

Bad Backs

Is there anything more common than bad backs?

Rejoice bad back sufferers, in the knowledge that you sustain a whole industry...

Massage therapists, chiropractors, acupuncturists, physical therapists, GP's , Reiki and other spiritual therapists, relaxation, meditation, visualisation, physical exercise, swimming and yoga classes are all there to support you.

There are also products such as, nutritional, herbal and homeopathic supplements, not to mention valuable back supports, special beds, pillows etc....

Now that we know, that there is a lot of help, how can you figure out, what is best for you...?

First, get 2 or 3 opinions of what it is you actually suffer from, knowing that will help you to seek the correct treatment.

Bad back problems can come from just doing too much heavy lifting to any kind of arthritic inflammation, mal-formation or the good old slipped disc diagnosis.

(get a second opinion esp. on the last one)

Lifestyle change is usually required,

1. Make sure you sit, walk and lift the right way.
2. Most backache is actually a weakness of back and abdominal muscles, and yes, that needs exercise.
   Find the right exercise for you, and that's it, stick to it. (No... ; work is not an exercise)
3. Massage will help in most cases, it reduces pain levels, stimulates circulation, relaxes muscles, and it is actually the only form of exercise someone else can do for you.
   As with most physical type of treatments, one session is not enough, like exercise, keeping it up will bring the most benefit to your back and the rest of you.
4. In inflammatory condition, supplementation will be helpful, there are many to choose from, and remember, there are no magic bullets, and you still have to do exercise etc.
5. Bad back supports, anything what makes you feel comfortable and will not weaken your structure over a prolonged time of use are good.
6. The mind is a powerful tool, it can be used to minimise chronic pain, visualize a stronger and healthier back.
7. Relaxation and Meditation are important if the back complaint is of a stress orientated nature....
8. Acupuncture, chiropratic and all the other modalities I have mentioned before, are all extremly valuable, the trick is to find the treatment which suits your specific complaint best, and than stick to it.
9. 2-or 3 treatments are usally not enough, but after the 3rd treatment you should be able to tell if your back and body are responding.