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Since the back supports a large portion of the body's weight, is
used for lifting, sitting, and just about every other physical
activity, it is very susceptible to intermittent pain and injury.
Notwithstanding, it can be difficult to determine the exact cause of
back pain. Common causes include joint problems, poor muscle tone,
strained muscles, herniated or slipped disc, etc.
Those at
risk of getting back pain include people who wear high heels, sit
for extended periods of time, are sedentary, overly active, or are
obese. Many people suffering from back pain are able to cope and
even recover without medical assistance in less than a month, though
recurrences in such cases are common. Low back pain can be short
term or acute which lasts longer than 3 months.
If you find
you have acute back pain, you should seek the assistance of a
qualified healthcare professional. Serious back pain can lead to a
number of more serious conditions including spinal disorders,
infections, fractures, osteoporosis, arthritis, or other less
serious conditions.
Nutritional supplements that may
be helpful in treating back pain
- Trypsine and Chymostrypsin
- D-phenylalaline
(DPA) - Is believed to relieve pain by decreasing the enzymes
that break down endorphins.
- B1, B6 and B12 -
Supplementation may prevent recurrences of common back
pain.
- Proteolytic enzymes (bromelain, papain, trypsin)
- exhibit anti-inflammatory effects that may reduce pain and
swelling.
Herbs that may be helpful in
treating back pain
- Colchicine - may help with back pain caused by a herniated
disc (note: colchicine may have adverse side effects).
- Willow Bark
- used when experiencing pain due to inflammation.
- Cayenne Pepper -
can be applied topically to areas of pain (a counter
irritant).
- Devil's Claw
- may reduce accute lower back pain.
- Ginger - used to
decrease inflammation and associated back pain.
- Eucalyptus
and Peppermint Oil - a combination of eucalyptus and peppermint
oil applied topically to area of pain (a counter irritant).
- Turmeric - has
anti-inflammatory effects with possible treatment of low back
pain.
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