Back Pain Management

Back pain management is an ongoing process. Anyone with a back injury or chronic back pain knows that every movement brings with it a certain level of pain. It may be minimal at times and excruciating at other times. The difference in the level of pain is generally associated with activities, rest, and exercise.

Daily activities usually cover a wide range of movement and posturing. For executives or office workers, it requires a lot of time in a chair--frequently in front of a computer. Correct ergonomics is essential in reducing the level of stress on the back. Taking a break to stand up and stretch at least once an hour will do wonders for releasing tension in the back. For anyone doing manual labor, lifting, or standing, it is important to have the proper footwear, support belts, or other safety precautions to support the back.

Practicing Good Back Pain Management

Getting good rest at night cannot be emphasized enough in controlling pain. The mattress and pillows should be supportive without being painfully firm. Side sleepers will often do well to have a pillow or roll specifically designed to place between the knees. This will hold the hips in proper alignment and, thus, keep the strain off the lower back.

An exercise routine should be followed that gives a total body workout. This should start with a gentle warm up for all body parts. Stretches and gentle movement such as slow walking is best. Follow the warm up with a period of cardio or aerobic exercises to increase the blood flow throughout the body. Always end the exercise session with a cool down.