Back pain is one of the most common ailments around – especially pain residing in the lower back, where the majority of your weight is supported. When you have back problems, it's important to find relief and speed the healing process so you can return to your normal activities as soon as possible.
There is a growing acceptance and use of alternative treatments in Australia, and there are a number of treatments that cater for back pain. The following are four alternative therapies that have been scientifically proven to be effective in the treatment of back pain.
An acupuncturist painlessly inserts hair-thin needles under your skin, which is thought to relieve chronic pain by stimulating the release of endorphins, your body's natural painkillers.
A recent study proved that acupuncture was more effective than conventional, non-surgical treatments for lower back pain. The difference was noted as a 33 per cent reduction in pain, and a 12 per cent improvement in functional ability. The acupuncture was delivered in 10, 30-minute sessions over six weeks, while the conventional treatment involved using drugs and physical therapy over a similar timeframe.
The Alexander technique is a course of lessons that helps you to realign and balance your body by promoting awareness of the way you move in everyday life. This is said to reduce joint and muscle pain by improving the efficiency of movement and posture.
A 2008 study showed that chronic back pain can be eased by teaching the Alexander technique. After a year of treatment, patients receiving 24 Alexander technique lessons reported experiencing just three days of back pain, compared to 21 days for those given normal care by their doctor.
Massage is a popular therapy used to relieve pain, muscle tension, spasms, inflammation, aches and stiffness. The therapist uses their hands or specialised tools to rhythmically knead, rub, and stroke muscles, which stimulates blood circulation. Improved blood flow helps to deliver oxygen and nutrients, and eliminates waste products that may build up in your muscles, limiting movement and causing pain.
A 2003 study showed that massage was effective for persistent back pain, and may reduce the costs of care after an initial course of therapy.
Weak abdominal muscles can contribute to lower back pain, because abdominal muscles act as important stabilisers for your spine. Pilates has evolved from an alternative therapy into a popular fitness training method. It was developed to stretch, strengthen, and balance the body, helping to prevent injury and reduce chronic pain. It is also heavily focused on strengthening your abdominal core, a group of muscles that stabilise your trunk.
A 2006 study showed that participants who practised Pilates over a 4-week period experienced more relief from lower back pain than those who went through other treatment programs.
The mineral magnesium assists in the normal functioning of muscle and nerve tissue, and may help to relieve muscular pain and spasm. If the blood is low in magnesium, the mineral is drawn from the muscles. Without enough magnesium, muscles stiffen up or contract. Sufficient magnesium helps all muscles in the body to function optimally.
Disclaimer
Any material in this article is provided for information purposes only, and may not be constructed as medical advice or instruction. Although technical accuracy is a priority, no action should be taken based purely on the contents of this article. Instead, appropriate health professionals should be consulted.
References available on request