All anyone needs to do is walk down an aisle in a drugstore to see how many products exist for lower back pain relief. As one might guess, there are so many products available to buy today because there are so many people suffering from lower back pain. The amount of people living with lower back pain is staggering. Its one of the most common complaints doctors deal with every day, in every doctors office and hospital. Everyone is looking for ways to find relief for the lower back pain they experience.
Its no wonder they are, either. Lower back pain can affect every aspect of a persons life. Sitting, standing, laying down all of those things and more can be made more difficult and infinitely more uncomfortable if you have an injured back. People wind up tired, cranky and in overall poor shape if they cant get the rest and relaxation they need. Poor rest means poor immune systems which results in increased sickness. Truly, lower back pain and everything it causes is a huge problem that needs to be addressed.
Where can someone find lower back pain relief? As was stated earlier, drugstores usually have a wide assortment of products that promise relief but do they work? The answer is yes and no. It really depends on the type of injury you have that is causing your lower back pain.
If you have a strain, heat tends to work very well. You can purchase disposable heat wraps that instantly activate the second the package is opened. Many of those kinds of heat wraps come with little pieces of Velcro or a cloth that can stick to itself that can be used to hold the heat wrap in place. That is especially handy if you need to be on the go while receiving a heat treatment. If you dont want something that is disposable, you can purchase regular heat wraps or make one yourself. A sock, stuffed with uncooked white rice, and tied at the end makes an excellent heat wrap when placed in the microwave for several minutes first.
Of course, medications can also work, especially if your pain is particularly intense. You might want to limit taking the pain medication to just before bed if you have to be able to drive during the day or otherwise have to function. Some medications can make a person rather dizzy or tired so its always best to play it safe when looking for lower back pain relief.
Ultimately, the best relief is to avoid getting injured in the first place. Keep your back muscles strong through stretches and exercises. Use proper techniques for bending and lifting at all times. Dont be afraid to ask for help or use tools such as dollies or belts that offer lower back support if youre moving something heavy. After all, you wont need lower back pain relief if you can avoid getting injured to begin with.