How You’re Making your Back Pain Worse

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Image source: Flickr

When you start to notice back pain for the first time, it’s usually followed by a range of questions. What caused it? How long should I wait before calling a doctor? Should I go in for surgery? While I’d love to give you all the answers, everyone’s case is unique, and has to be approached in a specific way. Having said that, there are certain big mistakes people can make when experiencing back pain…

Ignoring it For Too Long

It’s true that back pain can be caused by some fairly minor issues, and in some cases it will simply fade away by itself after a few weeks. However, it’s a huge mistake for anyone experiencing back pain to go on ignoring it for too long. If you’re experiencing back pain for several days, even if it’s fairly minor or only springs up at certain points in the day, you need to see a professional. This brings me onto my next point…

Leaning on your General Practitioner for Too Long

Medical office - middle-aged male doctor greeting patient, shaking hands.
Medical office – middle-aged male doctor greeting patient, shaking hands.

Image source: Flickr

 

Primary care physicians should certainly be your first port of call when you’re experiencing any kind of persistent back pain, and in most people’s cases they can recommend some simple exercises which will make all the difference. Having said that, they typically don’t have all the in-depth knowledge and experience that it may take to help you. If your back pain remains severe, and lasts for several weeks despite your general practitioner’s treatment, then ask them for a referral to an established chiropractor or an osteopath like this: http://www.lukerickardsosteopath.net . The longer you put off going to a specialist, the longer it will take to start feeling like yourself again.

Postponing Back Surgery

While the large majority of cases really don’t call for surgery, there are certain patients who could have a much easier experience by seeking out surgery sooner rather than later. One common sign of this is any arm or leg pain that appears after your back pain has been troubling you for a while. This is usually the result of having a nerve root pressurized, which can lead to further nerve problems without the right surgery. Make sure you’re staying in-touch with your physicians, and telling them about any developments which could call for surgery.

Sitting Around Too Much

I know that chronic back pain can be a serious strain on your emotional well being, and if you’re going through it yourself you may not feel quite up to any physical activity. A few days of rest is absolutely fine, but too much inactivity can really hurt your chances of a speedy and painless recovery. By exercising your back and the supporting parts of your body, you’ll assure that they keep flexible and strong. This will allow better support to your spine, speeding up the healing process, and minimizing your chances for any more pain or discomfort in the future. Your doctor will probably recommend various exercises for your lower back pain. You can find more at: http://www.greatist.com/ .

 

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