Low back pain relief should involve addressing issues in the lumbar spine, which consists of the L1 to L5 vertebrae. This area of the spine is an exceptional structure of interconnecting ligaments, bones, nerves, joints, and muscles. Each component gives each other support, flexibility, and strength for the body’s overall performance. The structure and function of the spine are impressive due to its complexity. However, the spine is vulnerable to injury and pain.

Now, let us begin to take a closer look at the low back—how it works and how to take care of it properly.

How Critical is The Lumbar Spine?

The lumbar spine or lower back has the enormous responsibility of carrying the weight of the upper body. It also provides flexibility and mobility for us to accomplish our daily activities. These routine movements include moving, bending, and twisting. The muscles of the low back assist in rotating the hips as you walk. They also support and protect the spinal column. The nerves enclosed in the lower back supply the sensation and power to the muscles of the legs, pelvis, and feet.

When severe lower back pain happens, it usually originates from an injury to the joints, discs, muscles, or ligaments. If the body suffers injury or trauma, it responds by creating an inflammatory reaction to let the body recover. This inflammation is what causes pain in the lower back area. 

What Are The Symptoms of Lower Back Pain?

Low back pain can include various symptoms depending on the location and type. Here are some common symptoms of back pain:

• Pain that worsens if you are sitting down or standing for an extended period
• Achy and dull pain that is mostly confined to the low back region
• Stinging and burning pain that spreads from the lower back to the back of the thighs and sometimes into the lower legs and feet. This type of discomfort may also include numbness and tingling. This kind of pain is known as sciatica. 
• Difficulty moving or sitting due to pain. There is also trouble walking and issues with standing up straight.
• A feeling of tightness or muscle spasm in the lower back, pelvis, and hips

Steps to Apply For Low Back Pain Relief

Here are crucial tips that you can personally do at home  to alleviate low back pain:

1. Do not lie down 

For a time, most people assumed that you should stay in bed to rest your back and stop the backache. However, new research concluded that this is the opposite of the truth. A large group of doctors now recommend avoiding bed rest entirely if you can. If you must lie down, it is essential to put two pillows under your knees to support the lower back while keeping the spine straight entirely. Also, never lay face down as this causes the spine to twist awkwardly.

2. Get sufficient night’s rest

It is vital to allow the body to heal while you get adequate sleep at night. Be mindful of your sleeping position. We recommend for you to lie on your side with your knees flexed and a small pillow placed between them. This is an example of a good sleeping position.

3. Choose a better mattress

Your mattress is another factor when it comes to your low back pain relief. If your bed mattress is old and sagging already, it may be the source of your low back pain. Get a mattress that is firm enough that when you lie, it supports your entire body while keeping your spine straight.

4. Cool it down

In the first 24 hours of pain, it is essential to use only ice, not heat, on the areas where the pain and discomfort persist. This move will reduce inflammation.

5. Heat the affected area

After a 24-hour period has passed, ice will no longer help reduce the pain of inflammation. This time, heat is the only way to relieve pain as it may help to increase the elasticity of the muscles. With this method, you may feel much better after soaking in a hot tub for at least 20 minutes.  However, if you are pregnant, please talk to your doctor first before trying this method.

6. Get a massage

Maybe your spouse can give you a backrub. Lie face down on a sofa or bed, and ask your spouse to knead your back muscles slowly. You can also go to local massage therapists for relaxation. Therapists are skilled in how to do the right kind of massage for your low back relief.

7. Chill out

Sometimes, low back pain can result from muscles contracting too tightly from emotional tension. Try relaxation and breathing exercises or other hobbies that help you feel calm to attain low back pain relief.  Get your mind away from stressful thoughts. Focus on positive thoughts and healing.

Turn to an Upper Cervical Chiropractor for Low Back Pain Relief

It may be difficult to imagine, but a problem in the top bones of the spine can often lead to lower back pain. How so? The entire spine functions collectively as a perfect unit. Once one of the bones in your upper cervical spine (neck) shifts out of alignment, the rest of the spine compensates. The damage due to misalignment extends up to the low back, resulting in extreme pain. 

Upper cervical chiropractors make a thorough examination of your neck. They employ a comprehensive and personalized care plan that helps patients achieve low back pain relief. Once they locate your specific misalignment, they will use a gentle and pain-free method to allow the bones of the neck to reposition themselves naturally. This procedure called upper cervical chiropractic leads to a longer-lasting adjustment. Once the correction of the misalignment becomes successfully corrected, many patients can experience improvements in their low back pain.

Use the search button on our website to find an upper cervical practitioner in your area. Get relief from low back pain soon, not later.

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