If you’re suffering from neck or back pain, you don’t have to live in discomfort. Fortunately, there are a number of things you can do to relieve your pain and improve your overall spinal health. Please keep in mind that before you utilize any of the tips found in this article, you should consult with your physician to make sure you aren’t going to do more harm than good.

Visit Your Local Drugstore

Whether your Houston-area drugstore of choice is CVS, Target, Randalls, or one of the many independent pharmacies, a source for pain relief is likely located on a store shelf. Unless you suffer from a cardiovascular or gastrointestinal condition – or another medical condition specified by your physician – you could benefit from taking over-the-counter, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). These medications, such as ibuprofen and naproxen, can reduce inflammation in the muscles, tendons, and other soft tissues in your neck or back. In many cases, inflammation can contribute to – or even cause – neural compression, which is generally the underlying cause of neck and back pain. In lieu of NSAIDs, you may benefit from taking an over-the-counter analgesic like acetaminophen. Ask your physician or pharmacist if it’s safe for you to take this type of medication.

Hit the Gym

There’s no shortage of gyms and fitness centers in Houston, that’s for sure. Even walking on the treadmill for 30 minutes a few times a week can drastically improve your spinal health. Aerobic exercise gets your blood pumping and increases the flow of nutrient-rich blood throughout the body, including the spine. Of course, an added benefit to working out is effect it can have on your waistline. If you’re overweight, then you’re putting undue stress and strain on your spine, which may not only be contributing to your pain and discomfort, but could also accelerate the deterioration of certain spinal components that comes with the natural aging process.

Take a Break

In many cases, bed rest is not a recommended treatment for neck and back pain. However, if specific activities are contributing to your discomfort, then it may be wise to take a break from them. For instance, if you believe you strained a muscle in your back while picking up your child, it may be wise to give your back a break and avoid lifting your child (and other heavy objects) for a few days or weeks. If you have an occupation that requires frequent bending, twisting, and/or lifting, then you may need to speak with your supervisor about slightly changing your responsibilities for a few days so you can give your back a rest. It might also be a good time to schedule a vacation for some good ol’ R and R.

Know When to See Your Physician

If your back or neck pain persists for several weeks or months, you should make an appointment with your primary care physician or a spine specialist in the Houston area. Your physician may be able to recommend other nonsurgical treatments, or could recommend an operation to decompress a spinal nerve.

John Soland is an experienced writer who has written for a number of notable publications. As a lifestyle expert, Mr. Soland is able to offer advice and insight on a multitude of topics, including those pertaining to health and wellness.

John Soland is an experienced writer who has written for a number of notable publications. As a lifestyle expert, Mr. Soland is able to offer advice and insight on a multitude of topics, including those pertaining to health and wellness. http://www.yellowpages.com/houston-tx/laser-spine-institute

Author Bio: John Soland is an experienced writer who has written for a number of notable publications. As a lifestyle expert, Mr. Soland is able to offer advice and insight on a multitude of topics, including those pertaining to health and wellness.

Category: Medicines and Remedies
Keywords: health and wellness