5 Tips for Dealing with Orthopedic Back Pain
Whether you work a job that involves physical labor or sit at a desk all day, chances are you don’t have the best posture. Proper posture is something most of us lack, and something that people rarely talk about – but the fact is that it is one of the leading causes of back pain and discomfort. Orthopedic back pain is a common problem that can be caused by a variety of factors, including muscle strain, arthritis, and spinal abnormalities. While it can be debilitating, according to Dr. Vikas Varma, of Manhattan Spine Consultants, considered the best back pain doctor NYC has in practice, there are several ways to alleviate the pain and improve mobility. Here are a few of the best ways to deal with orthopedic back pain.
Get More Exercise
The vast majority of us don’t have a solid workout regimen or routine. While you might go to the gym every now and then, consistency is important. As the top orthopedic spine surgeon NYC has in practice, Dr. Varma has helped countless clients dealing with back pain issues and one of his biggest recommendations is to be more active and develop a solid workout regimen. Regular exercise can help to strengthen the muscles in the back and improve flexibility, which can reduce pain and improve mobility. Some good exercises for back pain include swimming, walking, and yoga.
Medication & Supplements
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen and naproxen can help to reduce inflammation and pain. Your doctor may also prescribe muscle relaxants or pain medication to help manage your pain. While such medications will help you deal with pain, there are also a number of different supplements you can take that will help to prevent back pain and discomfort as well. Some patients may not want to take NSAIDs on a regular basis so they can opt for other, more natural remedies that have been shown to provide some relief for their issues instead. As per some back pain specialists, while the science behind such supplements is up for debate, many patients have seen benefits from using natural supplements that contain things like ginger, valerian root, turmeric, or capsaicin. Everyone reacts differently to things, so be sure to consult with your doctor before taking anything or adding any medication or supplements to your daily routine.
Chiropractic Care
While there are mixed opinions on the value of chiropractic care, for some patients it has proved to be highly effective and allowed them to live a much more active lifestyle. Chiropractic care involves the use of manual therapy to adjust the spine and improve function. According to Dr. Varma, the Top Back Pain Specialist NYC has in practice, it can be effective in relieving back pain caused by muscle strain or spinal abnormalities. Be sure to consult with your physician beforehand, and make sure to only go to licensed chiropractic care specialists.
Massage Therapy
Who doesn’t love a massage? Massage therapy can help to relieve muscle tension and improve circulation, which can reduce pain and improve mobility. In addition, massages can reduce stress and provide you with a relaxing outlet that many of us need in today’s fast paced world.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body to stimulate energy flow and promote healing. It has been shown to be effective in relieving back pain. The jury is still out on the science behind acupuncture, but for some people it provides the relief from back pain they need.
If you are experiencing orthopedic back pain, it is important to see a doctor or physical therapist for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. These five strategies can help to alleviate pain and improve mobility, but it is important to follow your healthcare provider’s recommendations for the most effective and safe treatment. Not every method will work for everybody, so be sure to find what works for you. As a top back and neck pain specialist, Dr. Varma has helped a number of men and women across NYC to live a more active and fruitful lifestyle and get the relief they need from their back and neck pain issues. For more information on back pain treatment in NYC, or to schedule your own orthopedic care appointment, be sure to contact Dr. Vikas Varma today.
