Many people suffer from back pain and it is one of the leading causes of muscle pain around the world. This could be due to many reasons, including the increase in office work. Take it from a Winnipeg physiotherapy expert, that sitting at a desk all day can put a strain on your back and many people fail to keep a good posture whilst at their desk. If you are suffering from lower back pain, here are six natural treatment options available through physiotherapy, if you don’t want to rely on painkillers.
Sleep
Sleep is needed for the body to restore itself. Without this, you will find your lower back pain is much tougher to treat through physiotherapy. It may be that your lower back pain is stopping you from sleeping and if this is the case, it may be an option to change your mattress recommended by a physiotherapy professional, to one that can help treat lower back pain.
Releasing Endorphins
Endorphins are a natural hormone found in your body. These hormones can be just as good as any painkiller you can pick up from a chemist. When endorphins are released within your body, they can prevent pain signals from reaching the brain. They can also help reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, which physiotherapy has identified association with chronic lower back pain.
Exercising Your Core
A stronger core means a more supported lower back and exercising your core could stop your lower back pain over time. Your abs especially are used to support your lower spine, so targeting these muscles during physiotherapy means your spine can be more supported. There are many core strength workouts that you can do at home or in the gym.
Physiotherapy
Physiotherapists are trained in the musculoskeletal system and can help with lower back pain. Physiotherapists will assess where the back pain is coming from and will be able to provide you with exercises to carry out in your home each day. They may also provide massage therapy alongside this. If you have lower back pain, seeing a physiotherapist is a natural way to treat this.
Hot and Cold Packs
Never underestimate the simple idea of using hot or cold packs to reduce pain after physiotherapy. Cold packs can work to reduce any inflammation and they act as an anaesthetic, slowing down the impulses from the nerves associated with pain. Heat packs can work by stimulating the blood flow to the area, bringing with it healing nutrients. Just like cold, it also helps stop nerve impulses sending pain messages to the brain.
Massage
Massage is often a big help for those with lower back pain, as it can help work out any tension, alongside other forms of natural healing. Physiotherapy massage is also great for blood flow to the area and you can speak to your masseuse about any troublesome areas before the massage begins, meaning they will concentrate mainly on this area for you. Massages can help with relaxation too, and it is great for the mind and body.
Getting enough sleep and regular exercise can help strengthen the core and produce endorphins. There are many professionals out there who use natural treatments including physiotherapists and masseuses.