Living with Chronic Back Pain
31 million Americans face some form of back pain on a daily basis. It is an all-too-common occurrence that has a variety of causes, but sadly, limited options. Accidents and injuries are the most common sources of back pain, although other factors such as obesity, poor posture, and osteoporosis play a role as well. Unfortunately, back pain is a difficult issue to resolve, and often requires patience combined with a more comprehensive approach.
One factor, in particular, that can put you at risk for back pain is a sedentary lifestyle. Sitting in one position for extended periods of time puts stress on the spine and muscles throughout your upper and lower back. Compounded with the likelihood of weight gain and joint degradation, it is easy to see how a sedentary lifestyle can cause or exacerbate issues like back pain.
One factor, in particular, that can put you at risk for back pain is a sedentary lifestyle. Sitting in one position for extended periods of time puts stress on the spine and muscles throughout your upper and lower back. Compounded with the likelihood of weight gain and joint degradation, it is easy to see how a sedentary lifestyle can cause or exacerbate issues like back pain.
Prescription Drug Risks for Back Pain
The back is a complex system of bone, musculature, and nerves. Care is often difficult and many doctors typically turn to NSAIDs and prescription drugs. While these may temporarily relieve pain, the long-term consequences and side effects may outweigh the benefits. Aside from the well documented addictive properties of painkillers, prescription drugs may also cause blood pressure and gastrointestinal issues. Talk to your healthcare provider about what is right for you.Supporting Back Comfort Naturally
There are several natural approaches people use to support back comfort. Though these methods may take longer than a typical drug, many people find them a gentler part of a long-term routine.- Exercise: Low impact exercise and stretching can have tremendous benefits for your back, as well as the rest of your body. Stretching based exercises such as yoga can help, as can low impact exercises like swimming. With the added benefit of also helping to manage body weight, exercise can play a meaningful role in supporting everyday back comfort.
- Massage: Massage helps relieve the tension in your back muscles and core. It also causes your body to release endorphins that aid in relaxation and everyday comfort.
- Posture and ergonomics: Adjusting your chair, desk height, and screen position, and standing up to move every 30 to 60 minutes, can reduce the load a long workday places on your spine.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Individual results vary. Consult your healthcare provider before beginning any new supplement.