We sit in traffic, we hunch over our phones, we trip over a sidewalk crack, and...whoa! Something (or more than one thing!) starts to hurt.
And even when an ache in one of these areas is relatively minor and transient, it can really get in the way of having a normal, active day.
If the pain is intense or lasting-or even if you're simply worried-of course you'll talk to a doctor. In the meantime, try some of these ideas to ease the ouch.
BACK PAIN
What causes it?
Most people will experience back pain at some point in their lives; in fact, it's one of the most common reasons people seek out emergency care, according to the NIH's National Center for Biotechnology Information. There are a wide range of potential causes, including inflammation, trauma, disc problems, and osteoporosis. Since there are so many things that can bring on the pain, if it sticks around you should talk to a doctor to pinpoint what might be causing it.
HOW TO EASE IT
"In most cases, back pain resolves in a week or two," says Justin J.Park, M.D., a board-certified orthopedic spine surgeon with the Maryland Spine Center at Mercy Medical Center in Baltimore. But it could last much longer, he says, depending on your age and your activity level.
Your doctor may suggest a prescription medication or physical therapy, and stretching can also help . Here's what you can do on your own:
TRY AN ANTIINFLAMMATORY DRUG.
Research shows that nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen and naproxen can help reduce the discomfort. (See page 30 for more information on OTC pain meds.)
USE ICE, THEN HEAT.
For the first 48 hours after the pain sets in, break out an ice pack (or even a bag of frozen peas) and use it for 20 minutes at a time.
This story is from the March 2024 edition of Prevention US.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the March 2024 edition of Prevention US.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
THIS IS YOUR BRAIN ON CLIMATE CHANGE
Living on our HEATING PLANET doesn't just affect our lungs, hearts, and immune systems but also can HARM OUR BRAINS' HEALTH, affecting our moods and behavior. Read on to know WHAT TO LOOK FOR AND HOW TO COPE.
SOLUTIONS Soothe a Sunburn
Expert-backed ways to ease the ouch and prevent burns in the first place.
HOW TO BUY IT Cooling Towels
These high-tech must-haves can help you beat the heat.
The Silver Palette
Complement gray hair with these tips from a makeup pro.
5 MYTHS ABOUT HANGOVERS
If last night's ale is still ailing you, you'll do anything to quench the throb. Here's the truth about the morning after, so you can recover fast.
The gut health CHEAT SHEET
Cut down on fried foods, ultra-processed foods, red and processed meats, alcohol, and sugary drinks, which can negatively impact gut health
7 WAYS to TAKE CARE of Your Gut
Research shows that people who get more sleep or have a high sleep efficiency (meaning they fall asleep quickly and stay asleep) have a more diverse mix of bacteria in their guts than people who sleep less or have more frequently interrupted sleep.
The ABC'S of IBS
THE GUT IS A COMPLICATED THE THINGS TPL PLACE, AND SOMETIMES THINGS CAN GET OUT OF SYNC THERE, leading to belly pain, mad dashes to the bathroom, and other symptoms.
Your Stomach's SECRET LIFE
YOU KNOW HOW WHEN YOU'RE YOU'RE NERVOUS you get butterflies in your stomach, or you can feel tired and logy all day when you're constipated?
All About P-BIOTICS
SUPPLEMENTS CONTAINING PREBIOTICS, PROBIOTICS, AND POSTBIOTICS are very hot, but the truth is, these nutrients and microorganisms are available through a well-rounded diet. Here's what each P does for your gut.
