Sunday 5 August 2007

Simple home treatments for back pains

Simple home treatments for back pains


Just as the brain is the command centre for the human body, the spine is its powerhouse without which it cannot work. And just like a workshop, it too can fail to work properly if as a whole or part of it suffers a breakdown.
The Spine or rather The Back is a combination of cartilage, nerves and muscle and a small injury to any of these can make a person physically disabled. Back pains usually occur at the lower back area, an area that literally supports the weight of the whole body.
Back pains often result from either overstretched muscles or ligaments, which are tissues, and like muscles, connect vital body parts together. Since the back is a crucial part of the human body, hence, any injury whether minor or major will produce a severe pain to it.
Although, there are various options for treating back pains including that of taking costly medications or in extreme cases having back-surgery. But according to doctors and chiropractors, about seventy to ninety percent of back pain diminishes within two to six weeks, either by itself or just by simply applying certain home-based remedies.
Below are some simple home-based remedies which when used properly, will guarantee relief from pain within days.
Avoid extensive bed rest:
The old adage that proper bed rest will cure all pains, well that isnt effective any more. Research has proven that extensive bed rest during bad backs will only aggravate the pain and not reduce it.
Instead going about your daily life will not only take your mind off the pain but will also help speed up recovery. But remember this; do not overdo it.
Use an ice pack:
If the affected area is swollen, then put some ice on it. Cold or rather ice, slows down inflammation and swelling; it numbs the tissue and hence reduces nerves signals to the injured area.
Take a hot bath:
usually after a day or two of using the ice pack, take a hot bath or a shower to further relax the muscles in the affected part and it will ease the pain. If you do not wish to take a bath, then a hot towel, a heat lamp or even a heating pad will do the trick.
Pop a pill:
And then there are the pills. Over the counter pills like aspirin, buprofen or acetaminophen can help relieve pain. But then like all medications these should be taken only after getting the clear either from your GP or local pharmacist as they will be able to guide you properly as which medicine is best for you.
Though, these home-based remedies will surely help to alleviate pain but if not after a few days, then it is advisable to contact your doctor or chiropractor for further action.


by ZAREEN KHAN

Simple home treatments for back pains

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