Scoliosis is a dysmorphism of the spinal column that implies its lateral deformation. Although scoliosis itself can still cause pain, people who suffer from it actually experience physical pain as muscles strain trying to compensate for the deformation. If you experience back pain caused by tired muscles or other complications of scoliosis, know that it can be remedied and you can get well again.
Steps
Method 1 of 4: Finding Instant Relief
Step 1. Take over-the-counter pain relievers
Over-the-counter medicines are the ones you can buy without a prescription. In particular, against pain you can take non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). These are available in tablets, capsules and sprays and allow you to reduce suffering quite quickly. NSAIDs block prostaglandins, the chemicals in the body that mediate the sensation of pain; when these do not enter the circulation, the pain is not perceived. However, remember that you must never exceed the recommended dosage, which you can read on the leaflet of the drug itself. The main non-steroidal anti-inflammatories are:
- Ibuprofen: this is a normal NSAID that reduces the production of prostaglandins and therefore muscle pain. The best known brands are Moment and Brufen.
- Naproxen: This works by limiting inflammation caused by muscle and bone fatigue. It is also a great pain reliever. You can typically find it under the trade name of Aleve or Momendol.
- Aspirin: This drug also reduces inflammation and is commonly sold under the name Bayer's Aspirin.
- Paracetamol: This is not actually an NSAID, but it is capable of blocking the brain's pain centers and controlling the central nervous system. The best known trade name is Tachipirina.
Step 2. Apply a warm compress
If you experience muscle spasms that are causing you pain, then you can use a warm compress. Heat relieves pain, calms spasms and reduces joint stiffness.
Wrap the hot water bottle in a cloth and then gently place it on the painful spot. Let it sit for 20-30 minutes
Step 3. Try the cold pack
Cold therapy can prove beneficial for tight and sore muscles, although it is typically used more against swelling and inflammation. To prepare a cold pack, you need to cover the affected area at 20-minute intervals over the course of 24 hours.
If you don't have a cold pack, you can make your own by wrapping a package of frozen vegetables in a cloth
Step 4. Give yourself some rest
If you are experiencing severe back pain, then your body is telling you that you need to rest. Stop whatever activity you are doing that causes you pain, lie down or do something you don't physically engage in. Remember that movement is also part of the techniques to reduce pain, so go back to doing some non-strenuous activity as soon as the acute phase has passed.
Method 2 of 4: Relieve Back Pain with Physiotherapy
Step 1. Do some stretching exercises often
One of the best ways to gain flexibility and muscle strength again is by stretching. It is an excellent physical activity that reduces back pain; you just have to be cautious and don't overdo it to avoid causing further damage.
- Stretch your arms above your head while standing. As soon as you start to experience some back pain, stand up and assume a standing position by stretching your hands towards the ceiling. This relieves the pressure applied to the nerves by the crooked vertebrae.
- Try doing a stretch with your legs apart. Take a step forward with the leg that seems longer. Try to keep your torso as straight as possible and shift your weight to your front knee as you bend it. During this movement, raise the arm opposite your front leg as high as you can. Reach for your back with your other arm keeping your palm up. Hold the position for a few seconds and do 2-3 sets of 5-10 repetitions each.
Step 2. Stop any activity that causes pain
If you feel pain, it means that you are performing an exercise incorrectly or that it is not suitable for your body. Any pain, pain, pain or swelling is a sign that you need to stop immediately.
- A slight muscle pain is quite common after physical activity, but it occurs precisely after exercise and not during its execution. Furthermore, it is a temporary suffering.
- If you are concerned that you are not doing some exercise properly, see a physical therapist. He will be able to teach you the correct movements.
- If you continue to feel pain, see your orthopedist.
Step 3. Do exercises that increase the flexibility and strength of the back
Walk, bike, or take aerobics classes to improve endurance. You can also try exercises like planks that strengthen the back while relieving pain. To do planks:
Lie on your back, rest your forearms and elbows on the floor. Forearms must be parallel to the ground. Lift your body onto your toes so that it stands straight and your back is perfectly flat. The body should form a single straight line running from head to toe, passing through the shoulders. Hold the position for 15-30 seconds
Step 4. Try doing Pilates
Although it may seem strange, this practice is one of the best for relieving scoliosis-related ailments. In fact, it focuses mainly on balance, so it acts on both superficial and deep muscles. The stretch that is performed during a Pilates session helps to limit the pain.
Before starting to practice Pilates, consult your orthopedist or physiotherapist. In most cases, people with scoliosis need an exercise routine tailored to their specific needs
Step 5. Practice yoga
As stated earlier, stretching is very effective against back pain. Yoga contributes to this by focusing on the spine, shoulder blades, feet, legs, and abdominal muscles. This practice relieves pain and promotes relaxation of the mind, which in turn is of great help in overcoming physical suffering.
- Do the triangle pose. This position stretches and strengthens the arms, legs and abdominal muscles. This is a great way to widen your torso and help your spine gain flexibility.
- Bring your knees to your chest. This pose, also called Pavan Muktasana, increases blood flow to the hips and allows the spine to relax. Lie on your back and bring your knees close to your chin. Hug your legs and hold this position for several seconds.
- Try the cat pose. This is one of the best exercises for relieving tension on the back. It also helps the back muscles to strengthen as the spine becomes more flexible.
- Try side planks. Start in the normal plank position with your weight on your feet and hands. Slowly shift your body weight to your right hand and turn your body to the same side. Lift your left foot and place it on your right. Raise your left arm pointing it at the ceiling. Hold the position for 10-20 seconds or as long as you can. Do this exercise at least once a day to reduce pain and make your back stronger.
Method 3 of 4: Look for Alternative Professional Treatments
Step 1. Before relying on alternative care, discuss it with your orthopedist
It is imperative that your doctor is aware of everything you do to treat your back pain and problem. In this way you allow him to evaluate the usefulness of the treatments you would like to try and to collaborate with the alternative medicine professional for your well-being.
Your doctor may also give you the names of licensed professionals working in your area
Step 2. Go to a chiropractor
This type of treatment can provide relief from pain caused by scoliosis, although it does not appear to reduce spinal deformation.
- The chiropractor can also recommend a variety of exercises to help relieve back pain. Remember that this type of physical activity does not prevent scoliosis from worsening, only relieving the pain caused by the deformation.
- You can find a chiropractor who works in your area by searching online, asking your doctor or friends for advice.
- Remember that chiropractic, although recognized as an alternative medicine, is not yet well defined and regulated in Italy. Some interventions are covered by the national health service and in any case not in all regions. If you have a private health insurance policy, find out if it also reimburses this kind of treatment to avoid nasty surprises.
Step 3. Try therapeutic massage
This type of practice can limit back pain including that caused by scoliosis. You will need to rely on a licensed physiotherapist who specializes in therapeutic massages, because these are different than relaxing ones.
- Make sure the physical therapist is qualified and experienced. You can do a search online or ask the orthopedist to suggest some names.
- Remember that massage is not always recognized as indispensable and therefore covered by the national health service. If the doctor or orthopedist issues you the referral for a series of treatments, then you will only have to contribute to the costs as regards the cost to be borne by the patient; otherwise you will have to pay the full cost of treatment. If you have private health insurance, make sure massages are covered by your policy.
Step 4. Go to an acupuncturist
This traditional Chinese medicine practice helps to find relief from pain caused by scoliosis. Remember that this is not a "miracle" treatment and will not improve the curvature of the spine.
- Always rely on an expert acupuncturist who complies with all hygiene and safety rules.
- Again, the NHS does not cover acupuncture therapies and you will therefore have to pay for each session out of your own pocket. Ask your private health insurance if they have an agreement with any acupuncturist.
Method 4 of 4: Correcting Scoliosis to Find Pain Relief
Step 1. Discuss with the orthopedist
Before applying the treatments described in this section, you must obtain the consent of your doctor. Some types of scoliosis absolutely do not need to be treated, because they are caused by other health problems that need to be resolved first. Ask your orthopedist for advice on the exact process for treating your case.
Step 2. Put on an orthopedic corset
This type of brace does not cure scoliosis, but is able to reduce the progression of its effects. When you first start using it, you will need to keep it both night and day. As the development of the anomaly begins to slow down, you will be able to wear it for fewer hours. The orthopedic corset is particularly important because it reduces the chances of having to undergo surgery.
If you start using the torso as soon as you are diagnosed with scoliosis, then you can prevent your back from sagging further. If the amplitude of the curvature remains between 25 ° and 40 °, then you will not have to be operated on
Step 3. Undergo surgery
If the spine forms a curve wider than 40 degrees, then you will need to go to the operating room to stop this progression. Otherwise the deformation will worsen by one or two degrees per year. You will need to consult an orthopedic surgeon to know the details and what to do in preparation for the operation.
Advice
- Do stretching exercises every other day to increase flexibility, build muscle mass, and combat pain.
- If your child is diagnosed with scoliosis, get him checked out every six months to monitor for any progression of the disease.
