Are you wondering how to relieve your lower back pain?  The better question might be, “What can I do to prevent my lower back pain?” Almost everyone has low back pain at some point in their life. The good news is that most lower back pain will go away in a few days or weeks with some basic self-care. But if your pain continues for longer than a few weeks, look for a doctor of chiropractic who can find the cause and provide low back pain treatment.

Some people are afraid that doing too much may make their back pain worse. Most doctors would agree that, in most cases, performing your normal activities is good for you as long as you avoid activities that would make your back pain worse.

What can I do to prevent my lower back pain?

• Always stretch before exercise or other strenuous physical activity.
• Don’t slouch when standing or sitting. When standing, keep your weight balanced on your feet.
• Your work surface should be at a comfortable height for you.
• Sit in a chair with good lumbar support and proper position and height for the task. Keep your shoulders back. Switch sitting positions often and periodically walk around or gently stretch muscles to relieve tension. A small pillow placed behind the small of your back can provide some lumbar support. If you must sit for a long period of time, rest your feet on a low stool.
• Wear comfortable, low-heeled shoes.
• Sleep on your side to reduce any curve in your spine. Always sleep on a firm surface.
• Don’t lift objects too heavy for you. Lift with your knees, pull in your stomach muscles, and keep your head down and in line with your straight back. Keep the object close to your body. Do not twist when lifting. And better yet, ask for help!
• Maintain proper nutrition and diet to reduce and prevent excessive weight, especially around the waistline that taxes lower back muscles. 
• Stop smoking! Smoking reduces blood flow to the lower spine and causes the spinal discs to degenerate.
• Find a chiropractor who specializes in low back pain treatment. 

By following these simple guidelines, you can restore and maintain your ability to function pain-free in your day-to-day activities.
If you need help, our doctors at McKim Chiropractic offer the DRS Protocol™, a non-surgical low back pain treatment for pain associated with spinal and disc problems. To determine whether you are a candidate for the DRS Protocol™.

Hundreds of patients suffering from chronic and severe back and neck pain have been treated successfully with the DRS Protocol™. Call McKim Chiropractic today to schedule a consultation. Our licensed and certified staff is happy to help the residents of Nampa, ID find relief from pain.