For many people, back pain is something that occurs at some point in life. In fact, studies show that back pain is the largest single cause of disability, and around 65 million Americans have reported back pain recently. Nearly 16 million experience this on a near-daily basis. Unfortunately, back pain is often overlooked by many, and it is a condition that is neglected until symptoms become worse. If your back pain is causing you severe discomfort, it is essential for your overall well-being to do something about it. Here are a few top tips to help you combat back pain.

Speak to a Professional

When it comes to back pain, you might be tempted to check out the internet and come up with your own solutions, but the last thing you should do is assess yourself. Self-assessment can lead to chronic pain and can even make your condition worse. When it comes to health conditions, it is always best to consult a professional. Doctors and physiotherapists are the best people to talk to if you want to get sound advice about your problem. However, if you do want more information about back pain from professionals before actually scheduling an appointment, always make sure you get it from a reliable source. ATL Physio is a valuable platform that provides professional advice on musculoskeletal pain and injuries. They are a great place to start for general information purposes.

Avoid Over-Exercising

One reason why back pain occurs is overexercising. Overusing and placing excess stress on your body can cause serious damage to your back, which is why you should always pay attention to your body when you exercise. If you can feel pain, it is a good idea to stop exerting pressure on your back. Performing exercises wrong can also lead to serious injury, which is why you should always make sure you check your technique and form before doing a new exercise.

Be Mindful About What You Eat

Maintaining a healthy weight allows your body to function properly, and adopting a healthy diet can help you stay on top of your weight goals. Not to mention, certain foods can actually alleviate back pain. It is no secret that calcium is good for the bones, but not many people know that a healthy dose can help reduce your risk of developing osteoporosis or osteopenia. Elevating your intake of calcium can help increase bone mass while incorporating more anti-inflammatory foods into your meals can help reduce back pain. Calcium-rich foods include dairy, while inflammatory foods include beets, pomegranate, turmeric, and basil.

Replace Your Mattress

According to The Sleep Foundation, mattresses should be replaced after 6 to 8 years of use. After this period of time, a mattress can lose its shape and sag, which means it cannot support your body properly. Ultimately, sleeping on an old, sagging mattress can make existing back pain worse. A supportive mattress can help you rest easily and achieve high-quality sleep. In turn, your body can recuperate and heal itself.