According to the World Health Organization, 619 million people worldwide were affected by low back pain in 2020. That number is only supposed to go up. Although back pain is common, it doesn't make it any easier to deal with.
However, did you know your lifestyle habits could be contributing to your back discomfort? Sometimes, all it takes is a few daily modifications and tender loving care to get your back pain under control.
If you're struggling to deal with discomfort in your back, Dr. Steven J. Svabek offers conservative and surgical treatments to provide relief. Dr. Svabek is an experienced orthopedic surgeon who carefully evaluates your symptoms to determine the best treatment route.
Back pain is one of the more prevalent problems among teens and adults. It can occur for various reasons. Acute back pain can happen suddenly and is typically the result of an injury like a fall or lifting a heavy object.
Acute back pain often improves after a few weeks but can impact your daily activities. Taking over-the-counter anti-inflammatories, resting, and using heat can help you alleviate acute pain.
Chronic back pain often occurs over time, sometimes after an injury. It can last more than three months and significantly impacts one's life. Most forms of chronic back pain heal without surgery, but not always.
Various conditions lead to both acute and chronic back pain, and some of them include the following:
The cause of your pain usually dictates your symptoms. A pulled muscle or strain may lead to severe pain that dissipates over a few days, while a herniated disc makes it difficult to walk or get up off the couch.
Back pain doesn't have to rule your life – even if you have a chronic issue. There are plenty of ways you can adjust your lifestyle to alleviate discomfort and prevent further problems with your back and spine.
Conservative measures are the best way to reduce everyday pain, including using over-the-counter medications, ice and heat, and stretching or resting. There are other lifestyle changes Dr. Svabek recommends, which include:
Although you may be in pain, sitting on the couch all day long is not a good idea, waiting for the discomfort to subside. While some rest is a good idea when you have back pain, limit it to a day or two during the worst discomfort.
The best way to fight back pain is to get moving and participate in some exercise. Physical activity improves circulation to your spine and helps loosen muscles that could be causing discomfort.
Activities like swimming, walking, and yoga are great ways to reduce pain and improve spine mobility.
What you eat may not seem to affect back pain, but it does. A diet full of processed foods and fats not only affects your weight but also widespread inflammation, which makes pain worse.
An excellent way to improve back pain is to change your diet. Cut back on processed carbohydrates, simple sugars, and unhealthy fats, all contributing to inflammation.
Instead, add nutritious proteins, fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats like avocado and fresh salmon for reduced back pain.
It's straightforward to slump over at your desk or skin down into the couch while watching TV – but that's the best way to worsen your back pain. Your posture pulls on the muscles throughout the body, causing tension and strain.
Although it won't happen overnight, you can take simple steps to improve your posture for decreased pain and improved spinal motion. Sit up straight at your desk, keeping your head over your shoulders and your shoulders over your hips to keep your posture straight.
Your core is the base of your body. It helps keep your back flexible and aids in injury prevention. However, many people neglect the core muscles, which weaken the entire body and increase the risk of back issues and pain.
Working your core several times a week strengthens your midsection, helps maintain correct posture, and may prevent back-related injuries. Your core is essential for the overall health of your body and your back.
If you need expert treatment for back pain, don't hesitate to call our office in Coral Springs, Florida, today or request a consultation with Dr. Svabek on our website.
