Managing Chronic Pain as Your Age

As we age, we face the necessity of managing aches and pains our bodies will indefinitely feel. Pain is not a normal symptom of aging, however, years of physical exertions and pressures take a toll on an aging body. Chronic low back pain, joint pain, and degenerative diseases become realities for many of us. While most turn to surgery, there are other better alternatives than going under the knife.

At Southwest Spine and Pain Center, our providers hope to keep people away from the surgical table and in our office for education on conservative treatments. Our four Utah locations give ailing patients easier access to our unmatched care, which includes managing pain without turning to surgery as a first option.

Getting older doesn’t have to hurt. Working with chronic pain specialists through a multidisciplinary approach can produce better results than any one surgery could. Starting with a review of patients’ lifestyle, our Southwest Spine and Pain specialists can determine which lifestyle choices patients need to modify to begin treatment. This could be altering diet choices, quitting smoking, or incorporating more physical activity.

Back pain is one of the most common, if not the most common, pain complaints that 80 percent of the American population will face at sometime during their life. Stress from bad posture, poor workplace setup, or wrong sleeping positions can cause pain to develop in the back. To fix this problem without spendy treatments, focus on a better posture, especially when lifting. More often than not, people will bend at their waist to pick something up, leaving the spine with the responsibility of the weight. When lifting, bend down completely at your knees, allowing the weight to be distributed in your legs.

Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications will also become your friend. Be sure to have ibuprofen, aspirin, or naproxen readily available at your home, in your care, and at work. If lifestyle modifications and medicine don’t relieve your pain, contact a Southwest Spine and Pain representative for more help.

Staying active is essential for continual pain management as you age. Go on walks and stretch your muscles often. Use the RICE method (rest, ice, compression, elevation) after your workouts if your muscles feel weak or in pain. Ask a Southwest Spine and Pain specialist what workouts can be incorporated into your daily routines to ensure your safety!

If chronic pain is impacting your life, don't wait to schedule an appointment at Southwest Spine and Pain Center. With three locations and growing, the pain management specialists at Southwest Spine and Pain Center are dedicated to helping those who suffer from chronic pain live the life they want to! To schedule an appointment, visit our locations tab!

The advice and information contained in this article is for educational purposes only, and is not intended to replace or counter a physician’s advice or judgment. Please always consult your physician before taking any advice learned here or in any other educational medical material.

©Southwest Spine and Pain Center, 2014

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