Tuesday, November 26, 2013

Ease Back Muscle Aches

Back muscle aches can really put a damper on your day or night. They can leave you immobile, uncomfortable and unable to sleep. Easing your back aches can be simple though, and doesn't always mean a trip to your doctor.








Instructions


1. Take some medication. There are a variety of over-the-counter medications that can help ease pain and reduce inflammation. Tylenol, Excedrin and Advil are just a few, and most brands offer specific formulas made exclusively for back pain relief. Depending on the severity of your muscle aches, your doctor can also prescribe a muscle relaxant that can ease back muscle aches and spasms.


2. Apply heat to the aching area. Use a heating pad or hot water bottle to help alleviate pain. Lying on your stomach or back, apply heat to the area for 20 minutes or so. This should help soothe muscles and ease pain. You can also buy heat patches to apply to the area if you don't have time to lie down.


3. Take an Epsom salt bath. Add 2 to 3 cups of the salt to warm bath water and soak for at least 15 minutes.


4. Try a little exercise. While you don't want to overexert your back muscles, light exercise can help stretch out and relieve tight back muscles. Try simple exercise like stretching or walking outside. You can also try a simple head roll or stretching your torso from left-to-right. Another good stretch for lower back aches is to lay flat on your back and bring your knees up and into your chest.

Tags: muscle aches, your back, back aches, back muscles, ease pain, your doctor