Chronic Low Back Pain Treatments

Low back pain can strike for a variety of reasons and usually resolves on its own after a few days or even weeks. Back pain that lasts more than three months is considered chronic. Chronic low back pain can interfere with daily activities. Treatment options depend on the nature and severity of the pain.

Chronic Low Back Pain

• Low back pain---pain anywhere in the region under the ribs to the buttocks area---can be caused from a simple muscle strain or injury to a medical condition, such as changes in the spine or spinal discs. Occasionally, more serious medical issues, such as some forms of cancer, may contribute to low back pain.

Pain Perception with Chronic Low Back Pain

• Pain is a subjective symptom---no two people feel pain in the same way. Therefore, depending on the underlying cause and the person's perception of pain, chronic low back pain can be just as agonizing as acute low back pain. One way to assess pain symptoms is to utilize a pain scale, which allows you to determine whether the pain has changed.

Conservative Chronic Low Back Pain Self Treatments

• Chronic low back pain treatments include over-the-counter pain relievers and the use of moist heat in the form of a heating pad or warm soak to decrease muscle tightness. Participating in regular stretching and an exercise routine with emphasis on the back and core or trunk muscles helps maintain muscle strength and flexibility. Adapting daily activities that cause an increase in pain, and practicing proper posture and body mechanics may help prevent further episodes of acute or exacerbated low back pain.

Professional Chronic Low Back Pain Treatments

• Chronic low back pain that interferes with activities of daily living may need professional care. Pain management specialists offer treatment options ranging from prescription medications to relieve pain to epidural steroid injections to reduce inflammation. In severe cases of chronic low back pain surgical intervention to correct problems such as herniated discs may be necessary.

Alternative Chronic Low Back Pain Treatment Options

• Alternative treatment options for chronic low back pain include physical therapy, which can provide an extensive stretching and exercise program coupled with modalities designed to reduce pain. It can also provide ways to cope with daily pain issues by focusing on proper body mechanics for specific activities. Massage therapy can decrease overall muscle tension and stress issues that may be impeding recovery. Chiropractics realign the spine and may reduce pain or discomfort.