Alleviating Back Pain Prior to Seeing a Chiropractor

12 Feb Alleviating Back Pain Prior to Seeing a Chiropractor

So you woke up this morning a little stiff in the neck or back area and aren’t sure exactly what caused this annoying pain. Could it be your mattress or the way you slept? Maybe it was that incident you had playing a game with some friends at the park? Morning after morning and day after day you continue to feel some discomfort in your neck and back and question if it’s time you see the chiropractor and the answer is you most certainly should.

But what should you do when the pain is extremely uncomfortable and you cannot make an appointment right away? Fortunately, there are many approaches you could take in an attempt to cope with your back pain until you can be seen by a professional. Your first option is to rest as much as possible. If your job requires heavy lifting, lots of movement or being on your feet or just being in a position that increases the pain you should avoid working until a chiropractor can evaluate your situation.

If you consider icing your pained neck or back muscles be sure not to over-do it. It is recommended that you should not ice any muscle for longer than 20 minutes at a time. Once you’ve finished icing the aching muscles apply heat, like a heating pad or hot water bottle, for no longer than 20 minutes. The cold/hot combination is likely to leave your muscles feeling less tense than before.

Light stretching can also be done but be very careful and cautious not to push yourself too far. If you are stretching your sore muscles, be sure not to push it too far or you could be doing more harm than good.

Always use discretion and caution before performing any of the above mentioned activities. Always see a professional as soon as possible! It’s very important not to wait or your situation could take a turn for the worse.