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Imagine what life would be like if you felt searing pain with every breath and every movement. If you suffer with back pain, that's how life can be. A study in 2002 showed that back pain was a leading cause of doctor's appointments and missed work. Next to headaches back pain is, in fact, the second most common neurological ailment in the United States. Most people suffer with back pain as a symptom of an injury or other underlying problem related to your spine. Pain may be caused by the bones, muscles and other soft tissues in the back. Back pain strikes hard. It affects your ability to work, play and lead any sort of normal lifestyle. Fortunately, it's uncommon for back pain to signify a serious underlying condition. Most cases of back pain are relatively short term and can last from several days to a few weeks. If you suffer with back pain, there are a number of treatment methods and remedies available. However, no single method will bring relief to every patient. If you are prone to back pain, it's important to take steps to avoid certain activities, such as heavy lifting. When back pain hits you hard, there are some tips that can help you to find relief: Rest and Relax Your Back Lying on the floor is the best way to find relief when your back is injured and you are in pain. Lie on your back with your hips and knees slightly bent. Place pillows under your knees for support. This position can help by taking the weight and pressure off of your back. If this doesn't help, try lying on your back with your feet propped up on a chair. With your back flat against the floor, and a pillow under your head, bend your knees so that the backs of your lower legs are resting on a pillow placed on top of a chair. By resting your back, it is possible to achieve pain relief after just a day or two. See a doctor if the pain does not stop. If you rest in this manner for more than two days, you muscles can weaken and your recovery period will be extended. The Heat is On Mother always did know best, and while researchers haven't provided any proof of medical benefit, many people still swear by a simple hot compress. Heating pads deliver a relaxing effect on muscle spasms, which can be the leading contributors to back pain. The best way to find relief using a heating pad is to place the pad over the painful section of your back, and then leave it in place for 20 to 30 minutes. Ice packs may also be used in this same manner. A massage following the hot or cold pack treatment is especially beneficial. Medications If you want fast-acting pain relief, you may choose to turn to medications. Most drugstores, supermarkets and department stores carry non-prescription medications to reduce pain and swelling and provide welcome back pain relief. Common over-the-counter remedies include aspirin, acetaminophen (Tylenol), ketoprofen (Orudis), naproxen (Aleve) and ibuprofen (Motrin). If you are among the millions of people who miss work and play due to back pain, stop suffering and take your life back. Try one of these methods for relieving back pain or speak with your doctor about alternative treatments.
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About the Article Author
Author Marlene Baliss is an essayist for numerous popular Internet sites, on health discovery and solve a problem issues.
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