Chronic back pain can be extremely debilitating. It can make it difficult to perform everyday activities, such as getting out of bed or working. If you suffer from chronic back pain, there are several treatment options available to help relieve your symptoms. Back pain San Antonio can be frequent or sporadic, ranging from subtle discomfort to acute, searing pain.
There are many different causes of chronic back pain, such as;
- Degenerative disc disease occurs when the discs between the vertebrae of your spine begin to break down, causing the vertebrae discs to rub against each other.
- A herniated disc occurs when one of the discs in your spine becomes ruptured or breaks open. This can cause the disc to press on the nerves near it.
- Spinal stenosis happens when the space around the spinal cord narrows. This can pressure the spinal cord and nerves, leading to pain.
- Osteoarthritis is arthritis when the cartilage in your joints begins to break down. This can cause the bones to rub against each other hence pain.
With this information, it is clear that back pain needs urgent attention. Here are some of the ways you can treat chronic back pain:
Physical therapy
Physical therapy helps strengthen your back muscles and improves your range of motion. A physical therapist can also teach you how to perform exercises to reduce your pain properly. You will likely need to participate in physical therapy for several weeks or months before seeing significant improvements. Some of the activities include;
- Aerobic exercise can help increase blood flow to the muscles in your back and reduce inflammation.
- Stretching can help to improve your range of motion and flexibility.
- Strengthening exercises can help to support your back and reduce your pain.
Massage therapy
Massage therapy can help to relax the muscles in your back and reduce pain. A licensed massage therapist can perform massage therapy, or you can learn how to perform self-massage techniques. You will likely need to participate in several massage therapy sessions before seeing significant improvements.
Acupuncture
Thin needles are inserted into the skin at precise body locations during acupuncture, a method of ancient Chinese treatment. Endorphins should be released, and blood flow to the painful location is increased by acupuncture, which is thought to aid in pain relief.
Chiropractic care
Chiropractic care focuses on diagnosing and treating musculoskeletal disorders. Chiropractors use various techniques to manipulate the spine and other joints to reduce pain. It is advisable to see a chiropractor who is experienced in treating chronic back pain.
Surgery
Surgery should be considered a last resort when all other treatment options have failed. There are a variety of surgical procedures that can be used to treat chronic back pain. These procedures can be performed on the spine, muscles, or nerves. You will likely need to stay in the hospital for a few days after surgery and take it easy for several weeks or months as you recover.
If you are suffering from chronic back pain, it is important to visit Castle Hills Family Practice for proper diagnosis and treatment. Your doctor will work with you to develop a treatment plan that is best for you.