Holistic Solutions to Relieve Back Pain

There are many holistic solutions for back pain. While pain medicine and surgery are frequently prescribed, natural methods that include a back stretching device or music therapy have also been shown to be effective.

Stretching

Stretching the spine and back can provide effective relief for chronic back pain. A special back stretching device can provide the same relief as a visit to the chiropractor’s office. There are many devices available but some can be expensive but not all of them are so be sure to do your research. Another added benefit is that these can be used in the privacy of you’re a home.

 

These devices focus on relieving pain at the key pressure points of the back. Muscles are stretched without straining the spine. They carefully and gently alleviate the back pain.

The best devices are portable and easy to use. Simply place it on a hard service like the floor. Ankles are then placed in a padded holder and arms are placed in a crutch on the top. Then handles are pulled to gently stretch the lower, mid and upper back. Immediate pain relief should be felt.

Massage

Massage therapy alleviates back pain and aches. It also has the added benefit of reducing anxiety and depression symptoms. Many people sleep better and have improved range of motion after a massage.

Endorphins are released during a massage. These chemicals make people feel good and lead to effective pain management. Tight muscles relax and muscle spasms are reduced.

There are several types of massage therapy but Swedish massage is the most common. The therapist will use long smooth strokes and circular movements. It is relaxing and gentle and often used with oil or lotion.

Deep tissue massage is good for painful and tight back muscles. It targets the deeper layers of the muscles and uses friction techniques.

Hot stone massage places warm smooth stones at key points on the body. The warmth from the stones relaxes muscles and improves circulation. It relieves back pain, tension, stress and anxiety.

Acupuncture

Acupuncture is based on the body’s invisible energy lines. Needles are place along these lines to restore balance to the electrical currents of the body. Pain relieving endorphins are released and circulation improved.

Not only does acupuncture relieve back pain, it is also used for arthritis, headaches and fibromyalgia. Some insurance policies cover acupuncture.

Vitamins and Minerals

Magnesium is needed for muscles to function normally. Without enough magnesium muscles will have pain and spasms. This nutrient helps nerve to function normally and prevents depression.

Vitamin B12 has been shown to relieve low back pain and disability. It improves depression symptoms, memory and alleviates any irritability.

Vitamin D can relieve back pain by reducing muscle spasms. It also maintains healthy bones so that muscles are supported. It is considered essential for maintaining a healthy back.

Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant. When back muscles become inflamed they release damaging free radicals. Vitamin E relieves back pain by fighting off these free radicals.

Other vitamins that reduce inflammation and alleviate back pain are vitamin C, zinc, calcium, boron, copper, glucosamine sulfate and niacinamide. Follow recommended dosages and consult with a health care provider as needed.

Music Therapy

Music therapy can reduce back pain by reducing anxiety and stress, thus helping the muscles to relax. It can have an immediate effect and is easy to initiate. The best music is soothing and has no vocals. It causes the mind to be distracted from the pain.

Many cancer and pain centers use music therapists to select music for their clients with chronic pain. It has been shown that people who use music therapy require less pain medication.