When back pain persists for three months or more, it falls into the category of chronic pain. This type of pain tends to come and go, offering occasional relief but often leading to frustration. Chronic back pain can be particularly challenging when its cause remains elusive. We aim to delve into and provide insights regarding the common triggers of chronic back pain and non-surgical treatment options. We strongly advise against giving up hope.
Identifying the root cause of back pain can be quite a puzzle in certain instances. If your doctor has exhausted all diagnostic avenues, it’s prudent to seek a second opinion from a specialist in back pain. It’s crucial to take your time with decisions or undergo extensive medical procedures until the source of the pain is determined. Not only may such interventions fail to alleviate the pain, but they could also exacerbate it. Suppose the origin of the pain remains unknown or untreatable. In that case, your best action may involve collaborating with your doctor to minimize flare-ups and make the pain more manageable through the non-surgical treatment options we’ll explore today.
1. Lifestyle Changes
When dealing with chronic pain, it’s crucial to acknowledge your constraints and make necessary adjustments. Pay attention to your body and become skilled at regulating your pace. For instance, consider taking breaks while mowing the lawn or dividing grocery-carrying tasks into multiple trips. Identify activities that exacerbate your pain and, if feasible, steer clear of them. This approach can provide relief for your back and potentially hinder the progression of the underlying condition.
Furthermore, a significant lifestyle change to consider is quitting smoking. Scientifically, nicotine is known to intensify pain and impede the healing process. Losing weight stops unnecessary pressure on your joints and spine as well.
2. Improve Your Posture
This is a habit that only finds favor with some. As it happens, all those individuals who used to scold you during your childhood were indeed on the right track. Slouching is detrimental to your well-being. Poor posture can exacerbate back pain, especially if you spend extended periods seated. So, avoid hunching over your keyboard. Instead, sit up straight, with your shoulders relaxed and your body well-supported by the chair’s backrest. Consider placing a pillow or rolling a towel between your lower back and the seat for added comfort. Ensure your feet stay firmly planted on the floor. If feasible and suits your circumstances, consider using a standing desk while working!
3. Get Better Sleep
When you experience back pain, getting a good night’s sleep can become challenging, creating a troubling cycle since inadequate sleep might intensify your back pain. Additionally, your sleep posture can contribute to aggravating your back discomfort. Consider lying on your side and inserting a pillow between your knees; this helps maintain a neutral spine position and alleviates strain on your back. If you prefer sleeping on your back, try placing a pillow under your knees. Choosing a mattress that provides a comfortable, firm surface for sleeping is essential.
4. Visit a Specialist
Your initial destination should be physical therapy and chiropractic facilities. You should also explore alternative therapies such as acupuncture, massage, biofeedback, laser, electrical nerve stimulation, and other non-surgical options to relieve chronic back pain. If you have a spine specialist, engage in a conversation with them about potential alternative treatments that could prove beneficial for your condition.
5. Leverage Top-End Technology
Presently, the DRX9000™ stands out as one of the most cutting-edge technologies available for spinal decompression. Lumbar decompression, a core feature of this technology, involves applying distraction forces to alleviate nerve compression, which is frequently linked to lower back pain and sciatica. Historically, individuals suffering from disc issues were commonly prescribed pain medications, advised to avoid physical activities, referred to physical therapy, and, when their condition didn’t improve, recommended for spinal surgery. Typically, these conventional approaches yielded limited success for patients. Fortunately, you no longer need to endure that pain. Thanks to the collaborative efforts of a team of leading medical professionals and engineers, the DRX9000™ was developed to effectively address lower back pain and sciatica caused by herniated or degenerated discs. Remarkably, the DRX9000™ not only markedly reduces back pain in more than 85% of patients but also empowers the majority of them to resume more active lifestyles.
Established by Dr. Eung Kwon Kim, Kim Chiropractic & Rehab and First Imaging Center stand as the most enduring chiropractic practice in the Washington metropolitan vicinity. With offices situated in Rockville, MD, Columbia, MD, and Centreville, VA, Dr. Kim’s clinics have been serving the community for over 22 years. His initial clinic in Rockville, MD, opened more than two decades ago, driven by the aspiration to ensure the well-being and pain-free lives of his local community members, using premier technology like the DRX9000.