How to Relieve Upper Back Pain
Upper back pain is less common than neck or lower back pain. However, it still affects around 1 in 5 people at some point in their lives.
In our previous article, we talked about the main causes of upper back pain and what conditions are the usual culprit. Click here to see our article about “Main Causes of Upper Back Pain”
Today, we’ll cover the best ways to relieve upper back pain. So, read on to discover the best treatments and where you can find an upper back pain doctor in Huntsville, Texas.
5 Ways You Can Relieve Upper Back Pain
Whether your upper back pain is mild or intense, you need to take some steps to relieve it. You’ll probably be able to manage minor discomfort on your own, but you’ll need professional help if your pain is severe.
Here are some ways you can relieve your upper back pain.
Medication
A pharmacy is the first stop for most people who experience upper back pain because it offers over-the-counter medications that can reduce pain and inflammation. The most popular options include ibuprofen, aspirin, acetaminophen, and naproxen.
Keep in mind that although painkillers can help offer temporary pain relief, they usually can’t eliminate the cause of your upper back pain. That’s why you should combine them with other treatment approaches.
Heat and Ice Therapy
Putting ice on it is the most common advice when you have an injury. Applying an ice pack for 15-20 minutes several times a day can reduce swelling and inflammation, which is vital for pain management. Ice therapy is the most effective in the first two days after the pain starts, while heat is more efficient afterward.
Applying a heating pad to the upper back improves mobility and eases stiffness. In combination with ice therapy and other treatments, it can significantly reduce your pain and help you get back on track.
Stretching and Exercise
Although you must stop doing activities that worsen your upper back pain, you shouldn’t ditch workouts altogether. Exercise helps improve your blood flow, which stimulates healing. In addition, it can help strengthen your back muscles, improve posture, and reduce pain.
Stretches are an excellent way to reduce muscle tightness, which is often the cause of upper back pain. Discuss exercise and stretches with a medical professional to get a personalized pain management plan.
Massage Therapy
Massages are an excellent way to relax but can also bring significant pain relief by improving blood flow and reducing muscle tightness. A professional massage therapist can target problematic areas and work on your upper back to provide temporary relief.
Chiropractic Care
Many people seek chiropractic care for upper back pain because it can relieve pain, reduce inflammation, improve mobility, increase muscle strength, and restore a natural spine position. Chiropractic care can help you improve posture and achieve long-lasting pain relief.
Upper Back Pain Doctor in Huntsville, Texas
Joint & Spine Center in Huntsville, Texas, offers chiropractic care and other treatment solutions to relieve your upper back pain. With the help of Dr. Jeffrey Pruski and his trusted team, you’ll be able to live your life without pain again.
