Ryan Galiotto

Do it yourself chronic back pain relief can be achieved at home and could be the most convenient way of dealing with a problem that affects freedom of movement and maybe even mobility.

You may be comforted to know that most chronic back pain disorders have an excellent prognosis and are often relieved and cured within a short period of time. There are a number of simple things that you can try initially which may be of help. They include where possible, using over the counter painkiller and anti-inflammatory medications and temporary treatment with muscle relaxants. The application of cold compresses, for example a packet of frozen peas wrapped in a cloth and then applied to the appropriate area, followed by a warm compress, such as a hot water bottle, or even a hot shower is helpful to relax the back and help it heal itself.

A simple tactic for chronic back pain relief to try is continuing with your usual routines. It is certainly not a good idea to refrain from activity as this can allow the cause of the pain to become more entrenched. Better to try and “work it” through gently. Activity and regular exercise are always recommended to keep your body in good shape, and things such as swimming or going for short walks, may help.

Regular exercise is a first class remedy to chronic back pain. It has the advantage, by keeping the area mobile, or helping to prevent any latent immobility from setting in at a later time. But if the pain continues for more than a few days, it may be necessary to see your doctor for a further diagnosis. Standard medications such as Paracetomol can help and should not be overlooked, indeed they have a good record in longer term chronic back pain relief.

Drugs such Ibuprofen, which is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug, are proven to reduce inflammation and pain. They should only be used for short periods however. Longer term use could cause stomach ulcers to form or encourage some other forms of stomach illness. COX 2 inflammatory inhibitors have mostly been withdrawn from the market because of concerns over reported links with cardiac disease. If you are considering going down this route, it is important that you consult with your doctor first. Muscle relaxants that can be bought over the drug store counter also have a god record of success, but their use should be limited and not allowed to become the norm for a recurring problem. It is the cause, not the effect that needs to be diagnosed and treated.

The adoption of specifically created therapies (similar to the Alexander technique) are interesting developments and have been known to have a degree of success. The major emphasis is on using your muscles and joints in the correct way which can both help to prevent back pain from developing, or can help in dealing with chronic back pain if it already exists. The ancient art of acupuncture is also know to provide chronic back pain relief. There are many thousands of back pain sufferers who swear by this method of treatment and claim to have been cured.

Vitamin C, and Glucosamine Sulphate can provide chronic back pain relief. A regular daily dosage of 1500 to 2500g per day is recommended, as good old vitamin C facilitates the growth of collagen which is an essential element of the disks in the spinal vertebrae. Regular dosages of Glucosamine Sulphate, can also bring chronic back pain relief.