| Healthcare reform has been a hot topic in recent weeks.
As the United States struggles to lower health care costs, the financial impact of low back pain cannot be overlooked. Although it does not dominate the news, Americans spend at least $50 billion each year on low back pain, the most common cause of job-related disability and a leading contributor to missed work.
Low back pain is often chronic, and it may affect your daily routine and sleep patterns. In fact, it is estimated that up to 80% of all North Americans suffer from lower back pain at one point or another. If you’ve experienced this pain, you may be looking for a new method of relief.
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It's common knowledge that stretching and exercising are great ways to improve flexibility and posture, but did you know that a physical therapist is the perfect professional to teach you the proper techniques to encourage healing and prevent further injury?
Many of us are our own worst enemies, pushing our bodies beyond their limits. Certain activities such as moving furniture, lifting heavy boxes, gardening, or shoveling the driveway can all lead to pain and/or injury to the lower back. Back pain can also occur without overexertion. Staying in the same position for too long is a common trigger. In some cases, low back pain increases with stress and lengthy bouts of inactivity.
If you or someone you know has low back pain, we can help.
While you wait for your appointment, which we always provide in a timely manner, here is a helpful suggestion. If you find the pain unmanageable in between appointments, you can find short-term relief by laying flat on the floor and placing your feet on a chair. Make sure your shins are parallel to the floor (place a pillow under your ankles if the chair is too low). Staying in this position for 10-12 minutes will ease tension in your lower back. Also, avoid strenuous activity untill the pain subsides.
If a slipped disk or another type of problem is the root of your pain, you may have a harder time finding relief at home. In this case, we need to evaluate you and identify the best course of action. Follow our advice as your expert physical therapy providers and perform the exercises prescribed to you, staying conscious of your physical limitations. Listen to your body!
