Sometimes when you say someone or something is a pain in the neck you really aren’t kidding. There are many things that can cause you neck and back pain, and it may seem like the older you get the more pains you have and the longer they last.
Neck and back pain are things you don’t need to just suffer through though. There is help, and you can even get help that doesn’t include taking prescription or even over-the-counter medications that may lead to addiction or cause annoying side effects.
If you are tired of your neck and back pain keep reading and you just may find out why you’re in pain and what you can do about it.
Determine What Is Causing Your Pain
Do you sit hunched over a phone, desk or machine most of the day? If so, it’s simple to pinpoint your aches and pains since the human body wants to be straight, with your spine in alignment. As more technology is created, you will spend more time with your spine out of alignment and more time in pain.
You smartphone and computer aren’t the only culprits for your back and neck pain. You could have strained your back muscles when twisting or picking something up that was too heavy. It could also be the sign of a medical condition, like a herniated disc.
Take some time to look at what it is you are doing on a day to day basis. Are you hunching over the grill when you are cooking out? Are you picking up your baby with your back instead of your knees? There are many things that we don’t think of when it comes to preventing pain, and just a little awareness could make a big difference.
Find Natural Remedies
If you know you’ve been slouching too much, or you know you picked up something heavy you shouldn’t have, you may not need to run right to the doctor for your back or neck pain. You can try some home remedies first. Start by practicing good posture, stretching before lifting or working out, and exercising to help strengthen your back.
Find back pain creams that contain capsaicin, which is derived from hot peppers and can help ease pain. You may want to look into visiting a chiropractor on a regular basis as well. When your spine is out of alignment it can throw off your whole system and your chiropractor can get you back in shape.
Take Time Out To Relax
Even a slipped disk can benefit from a regular massage. Taking time out for a visit to a massage therapist can relax you and help take away what pains you, from neck pain to lower back issues.
Meditation can also help, which requires you to sit with legs folded and your spine aligned. Not only does the alignment help, but just clearing your mind and taking time to relax can help ease pain.
And remember, next time you’re sitting at the computer sit up, not slouched! You could prevent much of your pain with just a little awareness and care.