Regardless of its underlying cause, back pain can interfere with your daily routine. Many people are concerned with the possible side effects of powerful painkillers, leading them to seek alternative therapies. Below, the staff at Island Hospital in Anacortes, WA, shares a few ways to relieve back pain and improve your quality of life.

3 Potential Treatments for Back Pain

1. Practice Gentle Exercises

When back pain flares up, it can be tempting to stay in bed all day. However, lying down and remaining inactive can make the pain worse. Gentle, low-impact movement, on the other hand, can stimulate the production of endorphins and relieve muscle cramps. Try a slow-paced yoga routine or take up swimming or walking to soothe back pain. As your body recovers, you can increase the intensity of the exercise. 

2. Go to Physical Therapy

Whether your pain is the result of an old injury that never healed properly or a new one that needs treatment, physical therapy could be the answer. Walk-in clinics employ knowledgeable therapists who can teach you various exercises to strengthen the core muscles, facilitate healing, and combat the pain at the source. You will also learn how to sit, stand, and walk in ways that maintain proper spine alignment and alleviate strain on the back over time.

3. Improve Your Posture

If your job requires extended periods of sitting, think about your posture throughout the day. Do you stay upright or begin to slouch? Poor posture is one of the most common causes of chronic back pain, which can make sitting for a long time uncomfortable. Placing a lumbar pillow between your back and the chair encourages better posture and minimizes pain.

If you live with chronic back pain, turn to Island Hospital for diagnosis and treatment. They offer comprehensive Diagnostic Imaging and Physical Therapy services to find the problem, help lessen the pain, and improve functionality. First, talk to your physician about your pain and work together to develop a plan to help you improve your quality of life. Visit the website to learn more about their full range of medical services, and call the Health Resource Center at Island Hospital at (360) 299-1397 to help you find the best fit.