Back Ache
Find the Cause and you Find the Solution
BACK PAIN
Symptoms.
Back pain is often characterized by aching and soreness anywhere along the spine, from the neck to the tailbone, lower back pain is most common as the lower back is subject to overuse and strain. Stiffness in the muscles or joints of the back is not uncommon and most noticeable in the morning. Numbness and tingling or pain accompanied by fever should be treated very seriously.
Causes.
Many back problems are related to chronic misuse and overuse of the back muscles and spinal column. A sedentary lifestyle, obesity, improper posture or poor physical condition and flabby stomach muscles all put undue pressure on the back muscles and increase susceptibility to injury.
Back injuries are most likely to occur from lifting heavy materials improperly, causing sciatica or a slipped disk. With aging osteoporosis and arthritis are more likely to be culprits. A previous back injury or scoliosis increases the likelihood of recurrent back problems, especially if other risk factors are not reduced. Lower back pain is not only due to the structure of the back itself. Many women experience lower back pain during their menstrual period and a prolapsed uterus and pelvic inflammatory disease also cause a nagging ache. A kidney infection, especially if it is chronic, exhibits few symptoms, other than a dull lower back ache.
Nutrition.
Red meat is the root of many health problems, including chronic back pain. Uric acid contained in red meat can cause joint inflammation. Furthermore, the body uses the arachidonic acid in animal fat to maufacture series 2 prostaglandins, hormone like substances which worsen inflammation. Vegetables such as potatoes, soy beans and other legumes, and cold water fish should replace animal meat as the main source of protein. Nuts and seeds are another excellent source of protein, and provide other significant health benefits. Nut and seed oils, as well as fish oil, contain essential fatty acids which the body converts to series 1 or series 3 prostaglandins. Almonds, walnuts and peanuts are particularly beneficial, due to their high magnesium content. Magnesium is not only a constituent of bone and cartilage, but also maintains muscle tone. The diet should include a wide variety of raw vegetables and fruits, and whole grain cereals to provide the nutrients needed for the maintenance of bones, nerves and muscles, all of which contribute to a strong and supple back.
Nutritional Supplements.
Calcium and magnesium are vital for the muscles and bones, and help alleviate muscle spasms if they exist. Silica is also highly recommended to improve bone structure. Bioflavonoids and vitamins C and E are essential for maintaining connective tissue, and are useful for alleviating disk inuries. Vitamin C also helps if calcium absorption is poor due to inadequate stomach acid. Evening primrose oil is an excellent, mild anti-inflammatory and is useful whether the source of the pain is sciatica or muscle spasms.
Herbal Remedies.
Chamomile has a calming effect on smooth muscle tissue.
Horsetail not only heals and builds connective tissue, but also normalizes the bowels and alleviates lower back pain, much of which can be traced to a dysfunctional intestinal tract.
Use a white or black mustard seed pack for more intense heat. A mustard pack should not be left on for more than 10 minutes because it can irritate the skin.
External Physical Therapies.
Swimming is beneficial for your back because it gets you into shape while lending support to the entire skeletal system.
Proper posture is very important. Sit on a chair with your back straight.
A few times a day walk with a book balanced on your head.
Avoid bending at the waist with straight knees as this strains the lower back muscles
Avoid high heels and extensive walking on hard floors and paved streets.use walking shoes with shock absorbing soles. Comfortable shoes with rubber soles and low heels are important.
Dry brush the skin from toe to head.
Be sure your mattress is not too soft. Lie on your back with a pillow under your knees while reading in bed. This position puts the least amount of stress on your back
