Back Pain

Almost everyone has suffered from back pain at one time or another. Maybe you lifted something too heavy, or the wrong way. Sometimes you can just bend over the wrong way, and just like that...you have trouble moving about for the next few days. Although acute back injuries are common, the good news is, most go away on their own in about two weeks. If the pain persists beyond that time, or gets worse, its time to see a professional.

There are many reasons why a previous back injury may not heal, and many conditions that can exist simply because a minor complication never healed properly. Conditions such as arthritis, injured disks, and sprains can all be responsible for chronic back pain. Each requires specialized treatments; when a treatment intended to treat a sprain is applied for an arthritic condition, the pain will not cease.This is but one of many examples of why someone may suffer from chronic pain, even though they are currently receiving treatment.

Dr. Cassaro knows how to find and treat the true source of your chronic pain.

Here are some things you can do at home to relieve the pain.

Home treatment for chronic neck pain:

Exercise: Even though you may be in pain, exercise is very therapeutic in relieving pain. If traditional exercise is too painful, then consider just taking a brisk walk (cover a mile in about 20 minutes), or join an exercise class that uses a heated swimming pool for therapy. (see "helpful links" in main menu)

Eliminate sugar: Sugar causes nerve sensitivity, and can make your chronic pain much worse. It also weakens the body's tissues, and interrupts the body's healing process and suppresses the immune system.

Sleep: Getting plenty of sleep is crucial to the overall healing process. In fact, it's when the majority of the healing process takes place. Go to bed early, eliminate distractions, and get at least 8 hours of sleep every night.

Heat: You can try applying a heating pad to the affected areas of the back. Heat can calm and soothe nerves, reduce inflammation, and promote circulation.

Topical medications: Some over-the-counter topical medications are effective in reducing chronic pain, especially if the pain is due to nerve, or arthritic origin. The best choices are those containing a chemical called capsaicin. This is a natural ingredient that originates from hot peppers. There are also special prescription medications that are very effective. Make an appointment to find out more about these. *you can also download a recipe for making an effective topical medication at home - click here)

Medications: Most over-the-counter pain medications(Tylenol, Advil, Motrin, etc.) will provide temporary relief from acute shoulder injuries, or shoulder pain. If you find that you are increasing the frequency and dosage to cope with your pain, consider making an appointment with Dr. Cassaro for other alternatives.

Massage: Have a friend or family member gently massage the area of your back that hurts. This may promote circulation, and reduce inflammation and pain. If this is not effective, you may want to make an appointment with a professional masseuse.

Inversion table: Purchase an inversion table. They are inexpensive and can do wonders for anyone who suffers frequently from chronic back pain. These devices are specially designed to relieve tension along the spine. You can find out more on how to purchase an inversion table here.

Chiropractor: A visit to a good chiropractor can be helpful in relieving chronic back pain. If adjustments are done correctly, you may even notice a difference after your first visit. For recommendations on chiropractors, please call our office; we will assist you in finding one in your area.

If your pain persists, or worsens; click here to make an appointment.