What Not to Do If You’re Suffering from Severe Back Pain

People have been struggling with back pain from time immemorial. From mild discomfort to full-on agony, this health problem can take on a variety of forms. Recently, however, the number of people suffering from back pain has seen a significant increase. This can be credited mostly to our lifestyle choices. 

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), by 2050, around 843 million people worldwide will be affected by back pain, particularly lower back pain. In fact, at any given time, 540 million people suffer from back pain across the world.

Due to its growing prevalence, various treatment and therapy options have been made available to the public for dealing with back pain. However, bringing certain changes to one’s life is still the best approach to tackle back pain. 

Today, we’ll dive into the things you should never do if you’re suffering from back pain. Knowing and avoiding these things will help you avoid exacerbating your condition and promote a faster recovery.

Ignoring Your Pain

One of the gravest mistakes you can make when dealing with back pain is to ignore it. Back pain can result from a bunch of different causes. According to Mayo Clinic, these include muscle strains, spinal conditions, or even underlying medical conditions. Ignoring the pain and hoping it will resolve itself can lead to more severe problems down the road.

Consult a healthcare professional to identify the root cause of your back pain. Your doctor may recommend imaging tests, physical examinations, or blood tests to pinpoint the issue.

Once you have a diagnosis, you can work together to determine the best course of action, which may include physical therapy, medication, or a combination of physio and the top-rated TENS unit for back pain, to help with muscle pain.

Additionally, if, after a consultation with your doctor, you discover that your pain has come about because of (or has been worsened by) a car accident, it may be worth getting in contact with a reputable car accident lawyer in Nashville (or your location) as they will be able to help you recover compensation which can then be used to cover the costs of medical or other treatment. 

Overexerting Yourself

If you have back pain, no matter how mild it is, never overexert yourself. Many make the mistake of pushing themselves too hard thinking that the pain won’t be too much of a bother. They end up carrying or lifting heavy objects, ignoring a proper sleep routine, sitting in weird positions, and so on. In doing so, they’re only straining their back and worsening the pain. 

Don’t do the same. Instead, engage in low-impact activities and exercises as approved by your doctor. Avoid lifting heavy objects altogether. Maintain proper posture and get sufficient rest. You can, of course, gradually increase your activity level if your condition improves. That too, however, must be done under your healthcare provider’s observation. 

WebMD suggests that you must also watch your weight if you have back pain. Always stay within 10 pounds of your weight as it can help control back pain.

Self-Medicating Excessively

While over-the-counter pain medications can provide temporary relief, relying on them excessively can lead to various health issues and even worsen your back pain.

Self-medicating without professional guidance can mask the underlying problem, making it difficult for your healthcare provider to diagnose and treat the issue effectively.

Consult your doctor before using any pain medications, whether over-the-counter or prescription. They can recommend appropriate medications, dosages, and treatment plans tailored to your specific condition.

Also, consider alternative therapies like physical therapy, acupuncture, or chiropractic care. Such complementary treatments can help manage your pain without relying solely on medication.

Neglecting Good Posture

Poor posture is a significant contributor to back pain, and neglecting to maintain proper alignment can worsen your condition. Whether you’re sitting at a desk for extended periods or standing for long durations, improper posture can put unnecessary stress on your back.

For pain relief and ensuring a good posture while sleeping, you can explore specialized mattresses for back pain. These supportive mattresses ensure perfect spinal alignment and also provide adequate support for your lumbar region. In doing so, not only do these mattresses ensure a good posture but they also help you deal with the pain a lot better. 

According to Mattress Verdict, the best mattress for upper back pain is usually made of memory foam. A hybrid mattress can also work in this case as they’re good at helping ease pressure points. To deal with lower back pain, opt for a firmer option like an innerspring mattress.

Prolonged Bed Rest

When back pain strikes, the instinctive response for many is to spend prolonged periods in bed, hoping it will promote healing. However, excessive bed rest can weaken your muscles and exacerbate your condition, leading to more prolonged recovery and increased discomfort.

Try your best to find a balance between rest and movement. While it’s crucial to avoid strenuous activities that could worsen your pain, bed rest should be limited to short periods. Aim to engage in gentle stretches and exercises recommended by your healthcare provider to maintain muscle strength and flexibility. 

Neglecting Stress and Mental Health

Back pain can be emotionally and mentally taxing, often leading to stress, anxiety, and even depression. Neglecting your mental health while coping with back pain can have adverse effects on your overall well-being and may hinder your recovery.

Recognize the importance of addressing your mental health during your back pain journey. Consider seeking support from a therapist or counselor who specializes in pain management and coping strategies. Techniques such as mindfulness, relaxation exercises, and meditation can also help alleviate stress and improve your mental state. That, in turn, can positively impact your physical condition.

Conclusion

Dealing with back pain can be challenging, but knowing what not to do is just as crucial as knowing what to do. Therefore, if you’re suffering from back pain, always keep these points in mind and avoid them at all costs. The more careful you are with these things, the better your chances of recovering quickly from your back pain.