Alternatives To Medicine For Back Pain
BOSTON (CBS) -- Back pain is second only to colds and the flu when it comes to the reason we go to the doctor.
New research is finding that some of the causes and cures might be simpler than any of us ever imagined.
Sitting in that office chair and working at a computer is how many of us spend our day. That's the case for Professor Eve Troutt Powell. She's busy writing a book, and sitting behind the wheel of her car as she shuttles her kids around.
"Every woman I know my age with kids has the same back pain in the same place, "she said.
An achy back that comes from sitting too much is becoming more of a problem for office workers according to physical therapist Chris Leib.
Leib says pain flares up because of poor posture and a tendency to slump forward which puts pressure on spinal discs and nerves.
WHAT TO DO
The first fix is to make sure your computer screen is at eye level and that you're sitting at a 90 degree angle. Also, keep a slight arch in your back.
Eve also stands up, stretches, and takes short walks every hour. She says she is feeling much better now.
It's estimated that 80 percent of Americans will suffer from some type of back pain during their lives. New research says staying out of the doctor's office might be as simple as buying the right things at the grocery story.
Registered dietician Nicolette Pace describes this as an emerging field in science.
WHAT YOU EAT CAN HELP
For example, researches at Michigan State University found a chemical in tart cherries that has potent anti inflammatory properties. It's the same chemical that gives the fruit its dark color.
Pace said, "It acts very much like the prescription and over the counter pain medications do."
Olive oil, soy, green tea, and brightly colored fruits and vegetables also can reduce inflammation in the spinal column.
Dr. Ricardo Cruciani, a pain management specialist, said "Diet is very, very important for many, many reasons."
While food can't make chronic back pain go away, Dr. Cruciani says it can still be an important component in healing. "If you eat certain fatty acids like omega 3, this will have an impact on the inflammation and that's something we know pretty well."
That means foods like canned salmon, sardines, and walnuts which are all rich in Omega 3 fatty acids can help ease your pain.
Pace believes these types of foods can be an important part of the puzzle. "This is not an overall cure all. It's more of a build up and stay with it, and ultimately recognize even more health benefits," she explained.
Researchers have also found that some people with chronic lower back pain were deficient in Vitamin D. Those patients did see an improvement after taking a supplement, so that is something you might want to ask your doctor about.
