This post is written by Dr. Brent Wells
Back pain occurrences can be mild or continuing, but what they all have in common are damaged muscles, which can be used, lengthened, strengthened or stretched.
According to American Chiropractic Association, back pain is the main cause of disability across the globe. They also state that 80% of Americans are likely to experience back pain at some point in time.
You should not ignore the unusual back pain problems; instead you should seek ways of dealing with the pain to avoid adverse effects. One of the most recommended ways is the use of back pain relief products. There are many products out there that can help with back pain.
Here is a list of the best back pain relief products that you can buy and use today.
1. Pain Medication
Of the many products available for managing back pain, one of the most popular is pain medication. There are various things you have to consider prior to choosing medication, and they include:
- Severity of the pain.
- How long have you had the pain?
- Do you have insurance that will cover the cost of medication?
- Will you be able follow the dosing guidelines?
Unlike any other back pain relief products, pain medication is supposed to be administered by a doctor. According to Health Guidance, it is not fully advisable to self-medicate because of the following reasons: masking of severe back pain, the risk of dependence/abuse, incorrect choice of therapy, incorrect dosage, dangerous drug interactions and severe adverse reactions.
2. Back Brace
A back brace refers to a device made to reduce the movement of the spine to help manage back pain.
Apart from treating back pain, back braces are a physical reminder that you need to use correct lifting and bending techniques while at work or home. You can obtain a back brace online or from a local medical supply store. Generally, a back brace will:
- Protect your lower back.
- Reinforce support during intense activity.
- Improve posture.
Go for a well-built back brace with double layer construction for a custom fit. You are also advised to consult your physician or therapist prior to using a back brace for the first time.
3. Inversion Table
An inversion table is among the best back pain relief products you can use. It does something that you can hardly do as an adult.
It straps your ankles onto a stretcher, allowing you to hang by your ankles. This position reverses the effects of gravity on your spine and body. An inversion table helps align the spine and takes pressure off the spinal discs. Generally, inversion tables help you to achieve the following:
- Stretches ligaments and muscles.
- Eases back pain.
- Improves circulation and reduces muscle spasms.
- Relieves stress and motion sickness.
4. Foam Roller
Prevention is always easier than waiting for the pain to worsen. Foam rollers are a great way to address back pain problems. Foam rollers are inexpensive and easy to use. You can effectively use them to restore your body and prevent lower back pain and hip pain.
When you can do an activity on a solid surface, you need to engage an unstable stage to prompt your body to work harder. Foam rolling forces your body to employee more muscles so as to maintain proper balance and body alignment. A simple adaptation can transform a simple exercise into a challenge for better back pain control. When used properly, a foam roller is very resourceful for:
- Relieving back pain.
- Improving balance.
- Increasing range of motion.
- Improving core stability.
5. Lumbar Traction Device
This is a home-based traction device that offers superior traction therapy for managing back pain. This device can deliver up to two hundred pounds of force. You can use it on a prone or supine position. You can do the actual traction on your bed.
This offers a cost-effective and comfortable way to continue clinical traction therapy at home. The device helps with the following:
- Back and neck pain.
- Nerve root impingement.
- Spinal instability.
- Spinal cord compression.
6. Back Pillows
A back pillow provides the ideal sleeping surface for your back. The use of back pillow therapy is chiropractor-approved. According to research, a pillow with orthopedic design provides the required maximum support for your back. Back pillows are highly versatile since you can use them at home, at the office or in the car.
You can use a back pillow with your office chair to improve your posture, soothe your back and alleviate chronic back problems. With a back pillow, you will be able to spend hours gaming, working or driving without worrying about back pain.
7. Back Pain Relief Mattress
A back pain relief mattress is one of the best back pain relief products for everyone. The best mattress is one that is comfortable for your back. This can differ from sleeping on a soft mattress to sleeping on a hard surface, such as the floor.
The most recommended option is a medium firm mattress. The logic of a medium firm mattress is that it conforms to your back, instead of forcing your back to deal with a hard and inflexible surface. Consider the following factors when choosing a back pain relief mattress:
- Always test the mattress to confirm how soft or hard it is for your back.
- The mattress should form to your body.
- Do not settle for a very hard mattress if it is uncomfortable for your body.
- Avoid a very soft mattress because it might not support your spine.
- Do not sleep on a hard surface; it may tilt your spine.
There are so many claims nowadays as far as the best back pain relief products are concerned. Many new products are constantly advertised and promoted. If you are suffering from back pain, life may be so difficult that you may want to try anything.
But that should not be the case; the above mentioned products will certainly help with your back problems. In addition to the products, you should also: practice good posture when walking, sitting and sleeping; and take part in back pain relief exercises, including yoga.
Please Note – Before using any products first consult your near by doctors.
About Dr. Brent Wells
Dr. Brent Wells has been a practicing chiropractic physician in Anchorage, Juneau & Wasilla, Alaska since 1998. He is the founder of Better Health Chiropractic & Physical Rehab, a multi-disciplinary clinic that utilizes a team approach to provide a full range of effective, conservative treatments, including chiropractic care, rehabilitative therapy and massage therapy, as well as other advanced high-tech complementary therapies. His clinics have successfully addressed pain and spine-related conditions without addictive drugs or invasive surgeries for more than 15,000 patients.