BACK PAIN IN THE FOREST OF DEAN

Estimates have suggested that up to 80% of the world’s population will suffer from back pain at some point in their lives with the most common location of the back pain being the lower back.

It is sad that the general public has a perception that their local GP surgery is not sympathetic to the problem. Clients tell me that doctors are dismissive and even rude. One lady reported that her doctor had said, “It’s not surprising you have back pain – you’re too fat”.

What is required is a sympathetic approach combined with effective treatment. There are many alternative medical treatments that can help and some of these are listed below.

Chiropractic Treatment and Back Pain

Chiropractic treatment involves a hands-on approach to examining, diagnosing, and treating a patient who is experiencing back pain with spinal manipulation is the most common form of therapeutic chiropractic treatment. The practitioner restores the mobility of the joints by applying controlled force and the biggest advantage is that treatments are non-invasive, drug free and incredibly effective.

Acupuncture and Back Pain

Acupuncture has for centuries been used to treat a wide variety of conditions and the treatment is becoming increasingly common in the relief of back pain. Needles are inserted at specific points relating to the condition being treated and the results can be remarkable. Whilst many people have a fear of needles, the procedure is generally painless and most people find it very relaxing.

Massage and Back Pain

Massage has several benefits for back pain sufferers. It sooths the muscles, improves blood flow to the affected areas, stimulates the lymphatic system, encourages the release of endorphins and generally relaxes the whole body. Treatments can vary in intensity from extremely gentle to more robust and include the use of aromatherapy oils which have their own healing properties.

Reflexology and Back Pain

Many people find it strange that reflexology can relieve neck and back pain but it does this in several ways. It encourages the release of endorphins which are the body’s natural pain killer. It improves circulation, increasing the blood supply to back muscles, helps the body to release toxins which in turn reduces inflammation, stimulates specific reflexes in the body relating to the spine, sciatic nerve, knees and hips, and not least it relaxes mind, body and spirit.