Manage your back pain, don't let it manage you

Chronic low back pain is one of the most common problems people face and can affect your work, family and recreational activities. There are some steps you can take now to start managing the symptoms coming from your back.

Stop Slouching. One of the most common causes of low back pain is poor sitting posture. The strain on the back while sitting in a slouched position can cause excessive pressure on the joints, muscles and discs, causing pain. Learn to sit with correct posture and maintain that posture at all times to help decrease or eliminate your low back pain. Also be sure your work space is set up properly at home and at work.

Don't avoid exercise. It may hurt to get started, but exercise is proven to be beneficial for most low back pain. It helps keep your core muscles strong, provides increased circulation to your joints and discs, and it gives you a sense of well-being.

Stop lifting heavy things. One of the top causes of low back pain is frequent heavy lifting. If your job requires that you lift heavy items, ask your employer if special equipment (or an extra set of hands) is available to help ease the load on your lower back.

Stop repetitive bending. Another common cause of low back pain is frequent forward bending. Bending forward a lot can cause increased pressure on the discs in the back and can lead to muscle aches and pains. Limit your forward bending, and be sure to perform low back exercises that focus on backward bending to help offset the repetitive forward bending.

Stop waiting for your pain to go away. If you have had pain for more than a week or two, see your doctor or physical therapist. (Many insurance companies allow direct access to physical therapy.) While it is noble to try to manage the pain yourself, the earlier you start treatment, the better your chances are of making a smooth recovery and quickly returning to normal function.

If you are experiencing low back pain, don't suffer any longer! Call Pinnacle Physical Therapy today to schedule an appointment. Our therapists are experts in the treatment of back pain and we will get you results. We have two convenient locations. We accept most forms of insurance, including Medicare/Medicaid, offer prompt pay cash discounts, and assist with financing. Post Falls - (208) 777-4242 or Coeur d'Alene - (208) 665-2000.