Neck and back pain are some of the most common ailments experienced by North Americans. Because we tend to spend all day sitting in a desk chair, hunched over our computers, our necks and backs can tense up and become painful. Stress is another major factor in neck and back pain, and many people these days are extremely stressed. Physiotherapy clinics, massage therapists, and chiropractors all report that neck and back pain is an epidemic. Here, you can learn about 5 of the best ways to relieve neck and back pain.
1. Improve your posture.
One of the major ways our necks and backs develop chronic pain is through bad posture. Bad posture has long-lasting effects, and fixing it can make a huge difference. It’s a way of addressing the root cause. One very common form of bad posture is known as “forward head syndrome”. It’s where the neck doesn’t hold the head straight and the head appears forward of the body. Forward head syndrome can be corrected with exercise and treatment. You can work with a physiotherapy clinic to develop a plan to fix your posture.
2. Relieve stress.
Stress is a huge factor in chronic neck and back tension. When you are emotionally stressed out, you tend to tense your muscles. Some people grind their teeth, while others clench their shoulders. This constant tension has an impact on the body, and leaves you with a painful back and neck. Stress relief involves simplifying your life, managing your priorities, and making time for relaxation. Some people like to get a massage to relieve stress, while others like to go for a workout. Whatever it is that works for you, find ways to relieve your stress and you’ll find your neck and back pain will improve.
3. Eat well.
Believe it or not, eating poorly can have an effect on chronic neck and back pain. If you’re experiencing pain of any sort, you’ll want to make sure you’re eating a less inflammatory diet. Inflammatory foods include fried foods, wheat, dairy, and vegetable oils, while anti-inflammatory foods include meats like beef, fish, and chicken, vegetables and fruits. It’s important to create a healthy nutritional base for yourself so you can be more resilient to chronic pain.
4. Get professional help.
There are a number of health professionals who could potentially help you treat your chronic neck and back pain. A physiotherapist can look at the whole body and determine what needs to change in order to reduce the pain. For example, physiotherapists can help you address postural issues or muscle imbalances. A massage therapist can help relieve tension and relax the muscles, and a chiropractor may be able to bring your spine into alignment. Even if you’re not experiencing severe pain, a consultation with a physiotherapist or other health professional may help prevent severe problems before they occur. It’s a good idea to consult a health professional if you are experiencing neck and back pain of any kind. You may want to visit Dr Keogh for more of their resources.
