Inflammatory back discomfort is a chronic condition linked with multiple inflammatory issues that may impact the functionality of the spine and joints. IBD is often focused in the lumbar spine region but may also coincide with discomfort in the buttocks that alternates from side to side. It can manifest in other chronic conditions such as arthritis, and arise from a combination of different conditions.

What is the optimal anti-inflammatory therapy for back discomfort?

IBP management generally includes prescription medication — predominantly a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). If you follow your doctor’s medical treatment regimen, you should successfully handle IBD-associated discomfort. Lack of adherence can result in loss of efficacy and potentially serious complications, including spinal deformities and fractures.

Unfortunately, there is no one-size-fits-all solution for lower back discomfort. In fact, a 2017 study found that NSAIDs only worked for one in six individuals. If your symptoms worsen, you may lose the capacity to work or partake in regular day-to-day activities.

Therefore, in addition to following your doctor’s prescribed treatment plan, here are 8 steps to increase your chances of overcoming inflammatory back discomfort.

1. Maintain Physical Activity to Mitigate Back Discomfort

With mechanical back discomfort (caused by stress or strain), exercise can exacerbate symptoms. Conversely, with inflammatory back discomfort, physical activity actually improves symptoms. Provided it’s doctor-approved activity, you may be directed to a physical therapist to learn stretches that support good spinal posture and mitigate back discomfort. Also, specific exercises can help strengthen back muscles. Nevertheless, you should avoid high-impact exercises that could potentially harm your spine. Always remember to move in moderation.

2. Practice Deep Breathing Exercises to Maintain Lung Capacity

In the past 25 years, research has shown that perceived discomfort levels can decrease if you can induce a relaxation response. Specifically, relaxation exercises such as deep breathing, meditation, and yoga can do wonders for discomfort-related symptoms. However, if your IBD progresses into ankylosing spondylitis (AS), the joints around your spinal and rib joints can become chronically inflamed. This could limit your ability to breathe, causing severe discomfort at every breath, particularly during strenuous activity. There are existing treatments available to manage these symptoms, but no known method for completely eliminating AS.

3. Lift Heavy Items with Proper Form

While staying active is beneficial for IBD, your doctor and physical therapist will likely advise you to avoid lifting heavy objects. If you must move something heavy, you should use techniques recommended by physical therapists, such as engaging your leg muscles rather than your back muscles. Lifting with proper form leads to better results, prevents injury, and increases overall strength.

4. Be Cautious When Driving

Driving itself won’t exacerbate your IBD symptoms. However, you should drive carefully to avoid sudden movements of the neck or spine. With IBD, any impact—light or strong—can lead to serious complications. If discomfort suddenly intensifies while driving, you can use distractions to shift your focus from the discomfort. Listen to new music, tune into a podcast, or listen to an audio book.

5. Adopt a Diet That Combats Inflammation

One simple method to handle back discomfort caused by inflammation is to consume foods that fight inflammation. Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids are good at combating inflammation. These foods include fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, and tuna, and seeds like chia and flaxseed. Walnuts, fruits, vegetables, and spices like turmeric are also beneficial. However, processed foods, sweet drinks, and excessive alcohol can trigger inflammation.

6. Select a Suitable Mattress

Maintaining a good

Posture while resting is important to prevent IBD symptoms from worsening. People with IBD are recommended to sleep on a firm mattress. A suitable mattress will not only alleviate discomfort, it will also enhance your sleep. A poor sleep routine was linked to chronic lower back discomfort in a study published by the Scandinavian Journal of Pain.

7. Make Your Home Fall-Proof to Prevent Fractures

As IBP increases your risk for spinal fractures, ensuring your home is free of “trip points” to prevent falls is crucial.

8. Consider Using a Raised Toilet Seat for Comfort

For elderly individuals and those with IBD, a raised toilet seat can alleviate discomfort, prevent unnecessary joint discomfort and reduce the risk of falling.

9. Explore Additional Helpful Therapies

There are other therapies that can help manage inflammatory back discomfort, such as acupuncture, massage therapy, and chiropractic treatment. These therapies should be used along with your primary treatment plan.

10. Adjust Your Work Space for Correct Posture

If you’re contending with IBD and working in an environment where you sit for long periods, try these tips to improve your posture.

The Impact of Kratom on Inflammatory Back Discomfort

The principal active ingredients of Kratom are the alkaloids mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine. There is evidence that these alkaloids have calming, anti-inflammatory, and other alleviating effects. For these reasons, Kratom is often used to alleviate symptoms of fibromyalgia, knee and joint discomfort, and other chronic conditions. It might also be effective for IBD.

However, there haven’t been enough clinical trials to understand the health effects of Kratom fully. Before deciding to use Kratom, it is essential to do your research and consult a healthcare professional.

In conclusion, managing inflammatory back discomfort can be challenging, but utilizing medicines, lifestyle alterations, and additional therapies can help you lead a more comfortable and active life. It’s all about discovering what works best for you.