According to the latest from Harvard Medical, the best treatment for back pain is usually quite conservative such as Chiropractic care, ice and heat, and gentle exercise.
“Yet for decades, many doctors have been ordering more and more unnecessary tests, narcotics, and referrals to surgery.”
“If you have a first-time bout with low back pain, or are in the midst of another go-round with it, Dr. Jeffrey N. Katz, professor of medicine and orthopaedic surgery at Harvard Medical School, recommends:
Cold and heat. At the beginning of the flare-up, start with ice or cold packs. After 48 hours, switch to gentle heat.
Rest. If you are in severe pain when sitting or standing, bed rest can be helpful. But limit it to a few hours at a time, for no more than a couple days.
Exercise. An exercise program can help the healing process during an acute flare-up, prevent repeat episodes of back pain, and improve function if you have chronic low back pain. Work with your doctor or physical therapist to develop a suitable exercise plan.
Medication. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or an NSAID like aspirin, ibuprofen, or naproxen, are usually all that is needed to relieve acute low back pain. They work best when taken on a regular schedule, rather than after the pain flares up.
In addition to your conservative chiropractic care with Dr. Hunsberger and Dr. Wright, these few steps can help you gain control of your pain without aggressive and unnecessary procedures.
For the full article, check out…
http://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/back-pain-often-overdiagnosed-and-overtreated-201307316546
And book in today with your Vancouver Chiropractors Dr. Jerry Wright and Dr. Tyler Hunsberger today for your next check up!
