My top tools for back pain relief:

Since the pandemic started last year, I have been sitting A LOT for work. I know, I know, sitting is the new smoking but you guys, having a full time job that requires you to focus and review a lot of documents can make it tough to stand while working. I’ve tried setting an alarm to get me to move more, I got a cordless headset so I can move around during meetings, and I have made the promise to myself to take a walk at lunchtime now that the weather has turned warmer here on the east coast.

I wanted to share with you some of the things that have been immensely helpful to prevent back pain and/or soothe it when it gets really bad.

1. Inversion Table: My chiropractor suggested that I put my thing down, flip it, and reverse it! This inversion table was a gift from my hubby a few years ago and it really does help. Please make sure that inverting is recommended by your health care provider before purchasing or using one of these. I have a bulging disc and some joint issues (an old roller derby injury) so inverting really helps me. Please talk to your doctor and if they think this could help you, this model is fantastic!
2. Cool Azul Pain Relief Cream from Young Living: This pain relief cream is natural and works so well! A little swipe on your back and you will be feeling SO MUCH BETTER!
3. Deep Relief Oil Roller: Here is another amazing Young Living product. It’s a little more cooling than the Cool Azul cream and it is the perfect mechanism for targeted relief since the roller can directly go to a small area. I love to roll this right on my joints. It’s like I can feel them taking a deep sigh of relief! hahaha
4. Yoga With Adriene! I know, I know, I have talked about Adriene a ton on this blog but that is for GOOD REASON! Adriene is like having a yoga bestie available right on your phone, tablet or TV. She makes yoga fun and accessible for the masses. Search for the low back pain videos. You can also search by duration if you only have a certain amount of time to dedicate that day to yoga.
5. Hot/Cold Wrap: Sometimes you need some heat to be able to relax the muscles, sometimes you need ice to calm the inflammation. This versatile wrap is awesome for both. You can stick it in the freezer or the microwave depending on what you need.
6. Ergonomic Office Chair: Sitting has caused me some gnarly back pain because sitting “turns off” your glutes and “turns on” your hip flexors. The result is super tight hips and a weak butt, which can cause really bad imbalances thus causing pain. This chair puts some of the weight on the knees and puts you in a position where the hips aren’t all fired up. I like how you can change your position in this chair too, placing your feet on the knee pad and sitting up higher if you need to switch positions. Ultimately, I need to stand and move around more but this chair has helped my back pain a lot!

What are YOUR favorite back pain helpers? I would love to hear from you. Drop your faves in the comments below so that others can also benefit from your experience!