If you’re suffering from arthritis in your lower back, you’re not alone. It’s estimated that up to 85 percent of adults experience some form of lower back pain due to arthritis. Fortunately, there are a number of treatments available to help you manage your pain and improve your quality of life.
One of the best treatments for arthritis in the lower back is physical therapy. Physical therapy can help you maintain range of motion, build strength, and reduce pain. Your physical therapist can also suggest exercises to help you maintain good posture and improve balance.
Medications can also be helpful in managing lower back arthritis pain. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and corticosteroids can help reduce inflammation and relieve pain. If your doctor recommends it, you may also be prescribed muscle relaxants or a topical pain reliever to help manage your pain.
Heat and cold therapy can also be effective in reducing lower back pain caused by arthritis. Heat helps to reduce stiffness and improve range of motion, while cold helps to reduce inflammation and decrease pain.
If your pain is severe, your doctor may suggest that you try injections. Corticosteroid injections can help reduce inflammation and improve your range of motion, while hyaluronic acid injections can help lubricate your joints and reduce pain.
Finally, there are a number of lifestyle changes you can make that may help reduce your arthritis pain. Regular exercise and stretching can help reduce stiffness and improve range of motion. Maintaining a healthy weight can also reduce stress on your joints. And if you smoke, quitting can help reduce inflammation and pain.
No matter what treatment you choose, it’s important to talk to your doctor about the best plan for managing your arthritis pain. With the right treatment plan, you can reduce your pain and improve your quality of life.