Psoriatic arthritis is a kind of arthritis that affects people who have psoriasis. Psoriasis is an autoimmune disorder that causes red and scaly rashes on the skin and is more prevalent on the elbows, ankles, feet, knees, scalp and hands. Psoriasis can affect different parts of the body- skin, bones and joints, brain and nervous system, eyes and more.
If you have psoriatic arthritis, your immune system attacks its own healthy tissues and causes stiffness, swelling and pain in the joints. If left untreated, the inflammation can cause permanent damage to the tissues and joints and can be disabling.
This can affect any part of the body and can be either mild or severe. There is no cure for psoriatic arthritis and psoriatic arthritis treatments are mostly aimed at preventing joint damage and reducing the symptoms.
Psoriatic arthritis symptoms include, but are not limited to:
Psoriatic arthritis causes are autoimmune in nature, where the body’s immune system attacks its own healthy tissue and cells. Studies suggest that environmental and genetic factors play a role in the occurrence of psoriatic arthritis. People who suffer from this have a family history of either psoriatic arthritis or of psoriasis.
Physical trauma or some kind of virus or bacterial infection may also trigger psoriatic arthritis in people who are already susceptible to this disease. An unhealthy lifestyle, smoking and alcohol use also increases the risk.
Psoriatic arthritis treatment options may include one or more of the following:
There are some home remedies to follow that will ease the psoriatic arthritis symptoms.
Also Read: CRP Test vs ESR Test: Understanding the Differences and Significance
Psoriatic arthritis is linked with other complications and can cause issues like:
If you have been diagnosed with psoriatic arthritis, it is not the end of the world. While the disease has no permanent cure, proper treatment can ease the symptoms. The specialist one must consult for autoimmune disorders is a rheumatologist, along with an orthopaedic surgeon and physiotherapist. For any lesions on the skin, reach out to a dermatologist. Proper diagnosis and treatment, along with healthy lifestyle modifications, can help you manage psoriasis with ease.
Also Read: Glutathione Benefits: Exploring the Research-Based Health Advantages
Disclaimer: The information included on this site is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional. Because of unique individual needs, the reader should consult their physician to determine the appropriateness of the information for the reader’s situation.
Do you have a stiff back? Do you find difficulties in turning or bending in one or both directions? If yes, you might have back pain problems. Back pain is recognised as a sharp pain that you may feel in your back or spine. Back pain may be categorised as neck pain (cervical spine), upper back pain (thoracic spine), lower back pain (lower part of the spine), tailbone pain. Most people experience back pain at some point in their life. The occurrence of back pain becomes more common after twenty-five years of age in both men and women. It can be felt as a sharp pain, spasm or ache in the back. Back pain may impact different people differently. Apart from the obvious physical discomfort, it may lead to mental troubles such as irritation and short-temper.1
Therefore, we bring you a few natural remedies for back pain, which you can carry out at home. So, read along to find the natural remedies for back pain.
Most people experience generalized back pain, which might result from a range of different factors such as
Also Read: Natural Home Remedies for Arthritis
You might experience the following symptoms if you have back pain.
Also Read: Best Home Remedies For Gout
Here are a few home remedies for back pain that you may try.
Turmeric is easily available in your kitchen and has been used in traditional medicine for centuries. The main bioactive compound of turmeric called curcumin may have anti-inflammatory properties, which might be beneficial for reducing the pain in the body.2
Turmeric milk might be a good home remedy for back pain. Add one teaspoon of turmeric powder to half a cup of milk (hot/cold) and mix it well. Add some honey for sweetness if needed. Drink this turmeric milk at night for possible relief from back pain.
Ginger is the most common spice found at home. It is used for culinary purposes. Ginger might be used as an instant remedy for back pain. Ginger contains bioactive chemicals such as zingerone and gingerol. These compounds may have anti-inflammatory activities that might help decrease the pain.2
Ginger tea might be a beneficial backache home remedy. To make ginger tea, take a small piece of ginger root wash and remove the peel. Next, you can slice or grate ginger and add it to boiling water. Cool and strain the ginger after letting it boil for about ten minutes. Finally, add honey or lemon juice if you need it.
Galangal may be used as a home remedy for back pain because it might have anti-inflammatory properties.2 Galangal tea may provide a back pain solution at home. To make galangal tea, add a small piece of crushed galangal root to any tea of your choice, and boil them together in water for few minutes. Then, strain the tea, add sugar or honey and drink this tea in the morning and evening for quick back pain relief.
Also Read: Galangal: Uses, Benefits, Side Effects and More!
Cayenne pepper may have the ability to decrease the level of pain causing neurotransmitter in the body. In addition, the active compound of cayenne pepper called capsaicinoids may have the ability to reduce pain. In various human trials conducted by Keitel et al. 2001, cayenne pepper preparations showed a reduction in pain when used in topical plaster. 3 You can purchase the ready to use cayenne plaster tapes, which might give you fast relief from back pain.
Devil’s claw may have analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties. It may be an effective pain killer and help reduce back pain.3
Devil’s claw tea might be beneficial for back pain. To make this tea, boil the dried root bark of devil’s claw in water for 15-20 minutes. Allow this preparation to brew properly. You will notice a unique spicy aroma. Drinking the tea might give fast relief from back pain.
Also Read: CBD Oil for Pain: A Comprehensive Review on Its Effectiveness
White willow bark might be considered an analgesic herb that may help relieve back pain. 3,4 White willow bark can be consumed in the form of tea. To prepare willow bark tea, add one to two teaspoons of white willow bark pieces in water and let it boil for five to ten minutes. Once boiled, turn off the heat and allow it to steep for about 30 mins. Drink this tea as required.
Lavender flowers may be used as herbal sedatives (induce calmness) that help reduce stress and decrease muscle tension.4 You may use lavender essential oil for back pain. Before using it, you should make sure to dilute the lavender essential oil with any other oil of your choice (coconut oil). Applying to the affected regions will provide instant relief for back pain.
Black cohosh root may have an antispasmodic activity and may relieve muscle spasms, may reduce pain and may have sedative (soothing) effect.4 Black cohosh root tea may be a beneficial home remedies for back pain. To make this tea, take black cohosh roots and add them to boiling water and then allow it to simmer for 20-30 mins until the liquid is reduced. Drink this tea to relieve your back pain.
The best home remedies for back pain might be making changes in our daily life,
Back pain may be reduced by heat and cold therapy (such as application of hot water bottles and ice packs). Keeping a healthy weight may also help manage back pain. 1
Though studies show the benefits of the given herb and home remedies for back pain, these are insufficient. Therefore, there is a need for large-scale human studies to establish the true extent of the benefits of these home remedies on human health. Thus, these should only be taken cautiously and never as a substitute for medical treatment.
Severe low back pain if unresolved on its own within 3-4 weeks would surely need a medical opinion and might benefit from ultrasound and interferential therapy by a physiotherapist.
Dr. Ashish Bajaj, M.B.B.S., M.D.
Also Read: Natural Home Remedies for Leg Pain
Back pain might resolve in a few weeks in most people with adequate self-care. Nine out of ten people might recover from back pain after two months. However, if the condition gets worse, seek medical help.1 Immediate medical attention is necessary in the following conditions:
If you have osteoporosis (weak bones).1 You should not depend on home remedies alone for the treatment of back pain. You need to consult a qualified doctor for advice if the symptoms do not improve with home remedies.
the best patient education that can be provided to prevent back pain is to maintain a healthy body weight with a body mass index (BMI) less than 25, as higher BMI correlates with worse outcomes Patients of all ages should avoid smoking as it increases rates of back pain in all ages
Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD
Back pain is a form of pain that might result from straining joints, ligaments and muscles. The early signs of back pain may include rapid pain, stiffness, numbness, tingling and spasm. Back pain may be avoided by modifying lifestyle patterns including regular exercising which can include walking, swimming, yoga, etc. Back pain can also be prevented by maintaining a healthy weight and introducing short breaks for relaxation in the daily routine. You may also try some ayurvedic home remedies such as ginger, turmeric, etc., which might give you instant back pain relief. However, if the condition continues for longer, consult a qualified professional to avoid more complications.
Also Read: Effective Home Remedies For Heel Pain
The precautions to manage back pain include lifestyle changes. Regular exercising like walking and swimming, weight training, yoga, pilates, maintaining good posture and a healthy weight, reducing stress and muscle tension and better relaxation might be helpful to manage back pain.1
Back pain may be managed by physical exercises, chiropractic, physiotherapy and acupuncture. Medications such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) might be used to reduce the pain but with its side effects. Therefore, before trying any alternative methods, it is best to consult a specialist. 1
Different therapies such as herbal medicine, laser therapy, ultrasound, heat and cold therapy, and electrotherapy may be used for back pain. Therefore, if you have back pain problems, consult a doctor and ask for advice before trying these therapies.1
Doctors will examine your back pain and might ask you the following questions:
How would you describe the pain?
Is there tingling or numbness?
What activities were you doing before the back pain started?
When did the back pain start?
What makes the pain worse or better?1
1. Back pain [Internet]. Health direct. 2020 [cited 2022 Jul 11]. Available from: https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/back-pain
2. Lakhan SE, Ford CT, Tepper D. Zingiberaceae extracts for pain: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Nutrition Journal. 2015;14(50):1–10. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4436156/pdf/12937_2015_Article_38.pdf
3. Gagnier JJ, Oltean H, van Tulder MW, Berman BM, Bombardier C, Robbins CB. Herbal Medicine for Low Back Pain: A Cochrane Review. Spine (Phila Pa 1976). 2016;41(2):116–33. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26630428/
4. Garner-Wizard M, Henson S, Milot B, Oliff HS, Oppel M, Rapp C, et al. Herbs in the Treatment of Back Pain. Ameri Botanic Counci. 2006;1–2. Available from: https://www.herbalgram.org/media/3947/310_review44523-120655-310.pdf
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.
Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.
There are numerous ways in which we hurt our spine and our backs with our habits. It could be the way we lift heavy objects, our postures or even the way we sleep. All these habits put a lot of stress on the back muscles and cause many aches and pains in various places. Take a look at some of the bad habits for your back that can be the leading cause of many posture problems.
Many people, unconsciously, begin to sit in a hunched position. This is observed mostly in those who are in sedentary jobs. Done over a long period of time, it can change the spine’s curvature and cause damage to the discs between the vertebrae. Apart from causing a slipped disc, this habit can also lead to early arthritis. Get up from your desk every half an hour and stretch and flex the back and neck muscles.
Try lifestyle changes for back pain relief.
Eating too much junk food, high-calorie snacks and sweets can increase inflammation in the body and can lead to many back problems. They also cause weight gain which hurts the spine in the long run. Eat nutritious food that is high in fibre and essential vitamins and minerals. Make protein a regular part of your diet as it is good for the muscles. Try these anti-inflammatory foods.
Not having exercises as a part of your routine can make you vulnerable to many back problems. Those who have weak abdominal and back muscles end up on the wrong side of back pain. Swimming, walking and bicycling are great workouts for your back. Read more on the 10 best exercises for lower back pain.
Poor sitting posture and workplace ergonomics over time can damage spinal structures and contribute to recurrent episodes of neck or back pain, always pay keen attention to your chair and any symptoms that may arise due to a poor posture.
Dr. Ashish Bajaj – M.B.B.S, M.D.
The way you sleep has a telling effect on your back. Sleeping on the back is really bad for the back. If you already have lower back pain, this position would be increasing your problems. Also, make sure you have a firm mattress. It should provide support but must be soft enough to mould itself in the shape of your back.
Posture during sitting or standing is very important. One of the biggest posture mistakes people make while sitting involves slouching. This occurs when you lean backward too much while sitting in a chair. Sitting in this fashion increases tension on the muscles, which may lead to lower back pain.
Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD
Both calcium and vitamin D is needed to maintain a healthy spine. Having a deficiency of either of these can lead to major back problems. Incorporate dairy, leafy greens and nuts in your diet to meet your daily requirement of these two components.
Smoking constricts the blood supply to the vertebrae leading to back pain. Also, it leads to a weakened skeletal system due to hampering the body from metabolizing calcium in the body. This can cause osteoporosis. Those who smoke are thrice more likely to suffer from back pain. Read more on the health hazards of smoking cigarettes.
Those who regularly wear high heels spoil the curvature of their back. This puts pressure on the lower back and can cause serious damage to the spine. High heels also lead to an altered posture.
All these daily habits must be ditched if you care about the health of your back. Just making small changes daily will lead to visible improvement in posture and back health.
Also Read: Benefits of Walking Backwards: Unveiling the Science Backed Advantages
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.
Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.
All of us have experienced lower back pain at some point of time in life. But the good news is that with a little bit of rest, the pain usually gets better. But that does not mean you neglect the pain or avoid its reoccurrence.
Back pain is a symptom rather than an ailment. This is your body’s way of telling you that your posture isn’t right and thus you need to get some ergonomic changes done. And as far as your personal space is concerned, it means that you bring about some positive lifestyle changes and keep that niggling pain at bay.
Also Read: Back Fat Exercises: Expert Tips for Effective Workouts
Avoiding the pain
If back pain has become part and parcel of life, then bring about the below changes right away:
Most people’s back pain dissipates in about a week or two, but if your pain is long-term or chronic, it’s time to see a specialist, especially if it is associated with tingling and numbness in the lower limbs.
Dr. Ashish Bajaj – M.B.B.S, M.D.
When is the time to see a medical expert?
If you are experiencing a prolonged phase of back pain, then it’s probably time to visit a doctor, preferably a back specialist.
See the doctor immediately if the following conditions prevail:
Also Read: CBD Oil for Pain: A Comprehensive Review on Its Effectiveness
Treating Back Pain
Your doctor will typically prescribe you painkillers or a particular bone or muscle lubricant to treat the pain.
Other forms of treatment include:
A sedentary lifestyle results in weak muscles in your core, poor posture, and increased low back pain. Being active helps you achieve and maintain a healthy weight, but also brings muscles into balance to support your spine and promote good back health. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-effort cardiovascular exercise daily to maintain healthy blood circulation and two to three short strengthening sessions per week. You might try weights (start light at first) or core-specific work such as Pilates.
Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD
Massage therapy
Here massage therapists use varying degrees of pressure and movements to loosen and heal aching muscles. This therapy works best to treat chronic pain, stress, and circulation problems.
Chiropractic Care
This treatment involves treating problems in your joints and nearby tissue area. A great technique to handle everyday wear and tear, this treatment uses many hands-on techniques to relieve patients of their pain.
Also Read: 75 Soft Challenge: A Comprehensive Guide to Embrace the Lifestyle Change
Acupuncture
This is a traditional Chinese technique that aims at restoring natural energy called Qi in the body. Experts in this field believe that when your Qi is blocked, blood flow gets stagnated and you experience pain and stiffness. Chinese Acupuncture balances the flow of Qi to your glands, organs, and body tissues.
Also Read: Zerodol P Tablet Uses
Surgery
This is one of the last resorts that your doctor may prescribe if he/she doesn’t see any improvement in your condition.
Also Read: 10 Best Exercises for Lower Back Pain
Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.
