Back Pain: Alternative Medicine
Top Alternative Medicine
1. Acupuncture
Acupuncture forms a key part of the traditional Chinese medicine. According to this treatment, the main cause of pain is an upset in the patterns of energy flow (Qi) in the body. Acupuncture aims to correct this imbalance in energy flow by placing sharp and thin needle points at strategic locations in the body. The needles will be pierced through anatomical locations on the skin to stimulate cure.
A study performed by researchers of Sheffield University in UK supports the effectiveness of Acupuncture in relieving acute lower back pain. People who underwent this needle therapy showed more improvement than those who underwent the traditional medication.
Acupuncture works through improving muscle rigidity and joint mobility. Diffusion of swelling and bruising can be achieved by stimulating the strategic body parts. Acupuncture needles aid in liberating neurochemicals and hormones and results in pain reduction. Instances of long term relieve from back ache are reported by using Acupuncture.
2. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) involves changing the way you feel about pain. Instead of treating it as a disabling situation, the patient will be directed to positive thinking stratum. “Back pain may be ‘in the mind’” is the basic idea behind this kind of a therapy. Counseling and other behavioral treatments are found to be effective in patients who do not find any relief from normal traditional medications.
Emotional stress, mood swings and mental stress can also cause acute back pain and this cannot be treated physically. Mental or behavioral therapy is needed here to treat these kind of psychosocial variables. The practitioner will try to recognize negative thought patterns and will strive to change it into something positive. British researchers back the effect of CBT in relieving back pain. Several sessions of CBT may be needed to get the full result. The therapy will help the patient to handle pain in a better manner.
3. Massaging
Massaging away back pain is a very effective alternative therapeutic treatment and a very popular home remedy. A soothing massage done in the ideal way can have will relax the muscles and take away pain. A good massage helps in getting rid of acute back pain by enhancing blood circulation around the area, by calming muscles, and stimulates the production of endorphin in body.
You just need a firm desk, massage oil, pillows and towel to get the massage done. You can take the help of an expert to get it done in a perfect way. Apply modest amount of pressure on the back and do upward strokes from the lower back till the neck. Massage back to the lower back area and repeat the strokes. Minimal pressure should be applied on bony region.
4. Prolotherapy
Prolotherapy is said to be an effective treatment for acute back pain. Most of the physicians in the US refer patients to this medication since instances of cure are reported. Also known as proliferative therapy, or regenerative injection therapy, Prolotherapy involves stimulating a local inflammatory reaction in the affected area by injecting a solution.
Regenerative injection therapy will cure connective tissue injuries and promote healing of to weakened or damaged tissue. The biological response generated by injection results in the creation of new cells and hence leads to healthy ligaments and tendons. You need to visit an expert practitioner to undertake this medication.
5. Herbal medicines
Severe back pain can be effectively and naturally cured by some herbs. Most of these herbs are so familiar to us and will be lying in our kitchen cupboards. The major benefit of herbal remedies is that the treatment can be done in the privacy of your home.
Devil’s claw is a very effective herb that can relieve acute back pain. Evidence shows that a daily dose of 60mg of Devil’s claw reduces back pain and arthritic pain significantly. The analgesic, anti-inflammatory properties of this herb help in relaxing muscles. Daily intake of freshly peeled cloves of garlic can also be used in the treatment of back pain. Garlic oil can be massaged onto the affected area to get relief. Fry 8-10 cloves of fresh garlic pearls in mustard or coconut oil until the cloves turn brown. Cool this oil and use. It should be used continuously for some days until the pain is gone.
6. Progressive relaxation
Embracing effective relaxation techniques can effectively cure back pain. In most cases mental tension can take the form of physical pains, tightness and muscle stiffness. Progressive relaxation method revolves around identifying this problem area and preventing them before it takes some physical form. Learn to keep anxiety and other nervousness at bay by inculcating positive attitude. The therapy focuses on enhancing patients’ sense of control over moods, improving confidence, spontaneity and creativity.
7. Simple Exercises
Performing simple physical exercises daily for about 25 minutes can have great effect in reducing back pain. People who suffer from back pain have the tendency to take rest by not stressing the affected area. Actually this is not correct. You should move the stiffened area to make the muscles flexible. Undertaking regular exercises will make your back stronger and you will be able to return back to normal life. You can do exercises at the privacy of your house or can go to a gym. You can get the advice of a fitness expert to know about the correct exercises to relieve back pain.
For overall well being life style changes are necessary. In the case of back pain one need to change one’s sitting posture, which is one of the main reasons for lower back pain. People who are in long hours of sitting jobs tend to suffer from back pain. Buy an ergonomic chair to resolve the sitting problem. Keep watch on the food you eat and keep away from obesity. Overweight people are the major victims of back pain.





